Ralph Estell Moffett
February 19, 2026
James Faustin Brownlee
February 19, 2026
Two arrests have been made in the ongoing investigation at Mark Morris High School involving alleged criminal misconduct with players on the basketball team.
The Longview Police Department arrested two juveniles at around 8:07 a.m. on charges of 2nd Degree Rape, Unlawful Imprisonment with Sexual Motivation, Indecent Liberties with Forcible Compulsion, and Indecent Exposure. The release says that because the case involves minors, no identifying information will be released.
The investigation into the case remains ongoing; detectives are currently reviewing evidence and conducting interviews.
In the release, the Longview Police Department also said they are reviewing mandatory reporting requirements of the school.
Chief Robert Huhta stated, “The safety of our students remains our first and highest priority. The Longview Police Department will continue to examine every aspect of this case thoroughly and objectively.”
The City of Longview and the Longview Police Department said that no further information can be given at this time.
If you have any information about criminal conduct, you are asked to contact the Longview Police Department.
*UPDATE*
A post yesterday afternoon on the Longview School Districts Website: Dear Parents and Families,
Today, Thursday, February 19, the Longview Police Department announced the arrest of two students on charges related to the ongoing investigation into alleged student misconduct at Mark Morris High School.
The allegations are deeply troubling and inconsistent with what our school district stands for.
We recognize that this news may be unsettling. To support our students, we have initiated the School Mobilization Assistance Response Team (SMART) to provide additional counselors and supportive adults on campus. They will be available at the Mark Morris High School starting at the beginning of the school day. Students may ask any staff member for help connecting with support.
We remain committed to cooperating with the law enforcement investigation. Once the law enforcement investigation is complete, and so the findings can inform our next steps, the district will engage an independent third-party investigator to review district practices related to our athletics program, including student supervision and staff training. This step reflects our commitment to accountability and to examining our practices carefully and thoroughly.
Because this is an active investigation, and to protect student privacy, we are very limited in the information we can share. Please know that our first priority is always the safety and well-being of all students.
Thank you for your patience. We will share additional information as we are able.
Respectfully,
Karen L. Cloninger, Superintendent
Longview Public Schools
