Crime

Authorities seeking potential child victims of Woodland substitute teacher

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Authorities are calling for the public’s help in identifying potential victims of a Woodland substitute teacher and youth sports coach suspected of possessing child sexual abuse materials and grooming girls.

Detectives with the Sacramento Valley Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force were investigating Kurt Willer, 41, of Woodland, officials said in a statement, describing the case as active and ongoing.

Willer had not been arrested as of Friday, but detectives said a search of his home Thursday indicated he may have possessed child sexual abuse materials.

Investigators also reported finding evidence suggesting he may have attempted to groom girls, according to the statement. No potential victims had been identified.

Kurt Willer, 41, of Woodland, is being investigated by the Sacramento Valley Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force on suspicion of possessing child sexual abuse materials and attempting to groom minors, authorities said.
Kurt Willer, 41, of Woodland, is being investigated by the Sacramento Valley Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force on suspicion of possessing child sexual abuse materials and attempting to groom minors, authorities said. Sacramento County Sheriff's Office

Authorities said Willer had worked as a substitute teacher at Woodland High School since the start of the school year and was on paid administrative leave as the investigation continued.

Task force officials said Willer also had been involved in coaching youth sports. Officials did not say whether he remained in that role, but said they were concerned additional youths may have had inappropriate or suspicious contact with him.

Investigators urged parents and guardians to speak with their children about any interactions with Willer and to contact law enforcement with information.

Authorities asked anyone with information to contact their local law enforcement agency, the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office at 916-874-5115, or Sacramento Valley Crime Stoppers at 916-443-4357.

Tips also could be submitted anonymously at sacsheriff.com or by calling 916-874-8477.

Darrell Smith
The Sacramento Bee
Darrell Smith is a local reporter for The Sacramento Bee. He joined The Bee in 2006 and previously worked at newspapers in Palm Springs, Colorado Springs and Marysville. Smith was born and raised at Beale Air Force Base and lives in Elk Grove.
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