BOISE, Idaho — An Idaho IceWorld figure-skating coach has been arrested for possession of child pornography.
Jonathan Schmidt, 40, of Boise, was arrested Wednesday for possession of child pornography, according to U.S. Attorney Bart Davis announced.
Court documents allege that, between January 29 and August 21, 2019, Schmidt knowingly possessed files of child porn.
The charge of possession of child pornography is punishable by up to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and a lifetime of supervised release.
On Thursday morning, Boise Parks and Recreation Director Doug Holloway sent the following letter to Idaho Ice World patrons:
“We have been notified that an Idaho IceWorld figure skating coach has been arrested on federal charges of possessing child pornography in relation to an investigation by the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Unit. The coach, Jonathan Schmidt, has also facilitated skating lessons at the facility. The investigation is ongoing, and the case is moving through the legal process. We are cooperating fully with investigators as needed.
“There is currently no indication from investigators that the Idaho IceWorld facility or its users were involved in any way. Boise Parks and Recreation is taking this situation very seriously and the safety of our customers and participants is always our top priority. Schmidt will not be allowed at Idaho IceWorld until further notice.
“Prior to being hired, Schmidt underwent a criminal background check as required by Boise Parks and Recreation’s policies and regulations. In addition, all our coaches and instructors must also go through an annual background check as part of their USA Hockey and Learn to Skate USA SafeSport certification process. Schmidt went through the required background check process as outlined.
“If you have any information for investigators you can contact CrimeStoppers at 343-COPS (2677), www.343COPS.com [nam01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com], or leave a tip using the “P3 Tips” app for your mobile device.
“Again, the safety and security of our patrons is our top priority and we will provide any follow up information as it’s available.”
Schmidt is charged by federal complaint.
He is scheduled to make his initial appearance in federal court in Boise Thursday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Candy Dale.
(photo courtesy: facebook.com/idahoiceworld)
