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Colfax Today
By the People, for the People
Alaskan Man Faces New Child Molestation Charge
Jaxon Raup pleads not guilty to additional felony in Whitman County, Washington
Published on Feb. 21, 2026
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Jaxon Raup, a 20-year-old man formerly from Palouse, Washington, is facing a new felony charge of first-degree child molestation in addition to a previous charge of first-degree child rape. Raup pleaded not guilty to the new molestation charge in Whitman County Superior Court, and prosecutors say there may be a third potential victim who is not able to testify.
Why it matters
Child sexual abuse cases are deeply disturbing and have long-lasting impacts on victims. This case highlights the need for thorough investigations and support for victims, as well as the challenges prosecutors can face when victims are unable to testify.
The details
Raup was previously charged with first-degree child rape in April 2025, to which he pleaded not guilty. The new molestation charge was filed after another young child came forward with allegations. Senior Deputy Prosecutor Tessa Scholl said there is a third possible victim, but charges have not been filed due to the child not being competent enough to testify.
- Raup pleaded not guilty to the first-degree child rape charge in April 2025.
- Raup pleaded not guilty to the new first-degree child molestation charge on February 21, 2026.
The players
Jaxon Raup
A 20-year-old man formerly from Palouse, Washington, who is facing charges of first-degree child rape and first-degree child molestation.
Tessa Scholl
The senior deputy prosecutor handling the cases against Jaxon Raup.
What they’re saying
“There is a third possible victim; however, charges haven't been filed due to the child not being competent enough to testify.”
— Tessa Scholl, Senior Deputy Prosecutor
The takeaway
This case underscores the importance of thorough investigations and support for victims in child sexual abuse cases, as well as the challenges prosecutors can face when victims are unable to testify.
