Longview Superintendent Accused of Deleting Messages in School Assault Case

Police investigation finds evidence of deleted emails and suspicious gaps in communications.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 9:27pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a shredded document or crumpled paper, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually illustrating the deletion of public records.A police investigation uncovers evidence of deleted communications, raising concerns about transparency in the school district's leadership.Longview Today

A police investigation into allegations of sexual assault at Mark Morris High School in Longview, Washington has found that the Longview School District Superintendent, Karen Cloninger, likely deleted messages and emails containing public information. Authorities searched Cloninger's laptop and cellphones, finding evidence of numerous deleted communications and 'suspicious gaps' in dates and times between messages.

Why it matters

The deletion of public records is a serious offense under state law, punishable by up to five years in jail and a $1,000 fine. This case raises concerns about transparency and accountability within the school district's leadership during an investigation into alleged sexual assault.

The details

According to the police report, authorities searched Cloninger's devices in February and found evidence that she had deleted numerous messages and emails. The report also described 'suspicious gaps' in the dates and times between communications, suggesting an attempt to conceal information. Under Washington state law, the alteration, hiding or deletion of public records is considered a class C felony.

  • The police investigation into allegations of sexual assault at Mark Morris High School began in early 2026.
  • In February 2026, police searched Cloninger's laptop and two cellphones, finding evidence of deleted messages and emails.

The players

Karen Cloninger

The Longview School District Superintendent who is accused of deleting public records related to an investigation into alleged sexual assault at a local high school.

Longview Police Department

The law enforcement agency that conducted the investigation and search of Cloninger's devices, finding evidence of deleted communications.

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What they’re saying

“The district is cooperating with the police investigation and maintains copies of all digital communications involving district-issued devices for a set amount of time.”

— Karen Cloninger, Longview School District Superintendent

What’s next

The Longview Police Department will continue its investigation, and prosecutors will determine whether to file criminal charges against Cloninger for the alleged deletion of public records.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in public institutions, especially when serious allegations are being investigated. The deletion of public records by a school district superintendent is a concerning abuse of power that undermines public trust.