Tue Jan 07 12:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Former Jefferson County Schools Chief Dies by Suicide Amid Child Pornography Investigation

**JEFFERSON COUNTY, CO** – David Weiss, the former chief of schools for Jefferson County Public Schools (Jeffco), died by suicide in Maryland Wednesday, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) confirmed. His death comes less than a month after his dismissal from Jeffco amidst an investigation into his possession of child pornography.

Weiss’s death has sparked outrage and anxiety among parents, particularly given that this is the fifth such case involving Jeffco employees in 2024. Previous incidents involved a paraprofessional, a family liaison, an afterschool care worker, and a social worker, all facing charges related to sexual assault or exploitation of children.

While JCSO stated they will not release further details of the Weiss investigation until its completion, parents are demanding answers, particularly regarding the possibility of Jeffco students being victims. Lindsay Datko, a concerned parent, expressed frustration with the lack of information and heightened worry over the severity of the situation.

The timing of Weiss’s death coincides with ongoing debate surrounding the district’s policy allowing employees to self-identify as “trusted adults.” Retired Morrison police chief George Mumma Jr. voiced concerns about this policy at a school board meeting in June 2023, emphasizing the crucial role of parents in determining who their children can trust. He argued against teachers self-designating as trusted adults without parental involvement or rigorous training. Jeffco Public Schools has yet to respond to requests for comment on this matter and the Weiss case.

The community is reeling from the news, with calls for transparency and increased safety measures from the school district. Parents are demanding a strong and decisive response from the superintendent regarding future preventative measures and accountability.

**Resources:** If you need help, dial 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You can also reach the Colorado Crisis Services hotline at 1-844-493-8255 or text “TALK” to 38255.

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