Jordan Roy Henderson, a 36-year-old former elementary school teacher and worship pastor, was sentenced on May 8, 2026, to 66 years to life in prison. The sentencing followed his January conviction on 12 counts of first-degree child molestation involving four female students. The crimes took place between 2022 and 2024 at Evergreen Elementary School in Lakebay, where Henderson taught 4th and 5th grade.
During the trial, prosecutors detailed how Henderson methodically groomed his victims by leveraging his dual roles as a trusted educator and a religious leader. He used his position of authority to isolate students and commit the assaults during school hours. At the sentencing hearing, Judge Alicia Burton ordered that the sentences for each of the four victims be served consecutively, citing the “unfathomable” breach of trust and the profound impact on the local community.
The emotional weight of the case was underscored by victim impact statements from the families, who described the lasting psychological trauma, including nightmares and a deep-seated fear of authority figures. Despite the evidence and the jury’s verdict, Henderson maintained his innocence and expressed his intent to appeal. He is now required to register as a sex offender for the remainder of his life.