Minot, ND – A district court judge in North Central District Court on Thursday refused to lower the bail for a former Minot Public Schools paraprofessional, Hiroki Ito, who is currently facing serious allegations involving inappropriate interactions with students. Ito, 27, of Minot, was initially arrested on December 6 following complaints by parents of two students at Central Middle School, attracting significant attention from the local community.
Ito had sought a reduction in his $60,000 bond during a recent court session, citing his responsibilities at home as the primary caregiver for his ailing mother. Despite his plea, the court upheld the bond amount, setting the stage for further legal proceedings in a case that underscores concerns about student safety and trust in educational institutions.
The charges against Ito are severe, including solicitation of a minor within 50 feet of a school and promoting obscenity to minors, classified respectively as Class B and Class C felonies. These allegations stem from actions that reportedly began shortly after Ito was hired at the school, with the reported inappropriate activities occurring as early as October 28.
Assistant Ward County State’s Attorney, Logan Simons, argued against the bond reduction, highlighting ongoing investigations that might lead to additional charges. Simons revealed concerns articulated by the families of the victims regarding their children’s fear of Ito’s potential release and the breach of trust he represented.
Further complicating the case for Ito, a new charge of luring minors by computer was filed on the same day as the bond hearing. This upcoming charge applies where the accused is over the age of 22 and believes the victim is under 15. This case, however, remains inactive pending formal procedures.
Judge Todd Cresap cited the severity of the allegations and the ongoing investigation as reasons for maintaining the original bond, indicating the court’s priority in safeguarding the community and particularly the minors involved. Cresap also noted that Ito, who receives a veterans disability pension, does not qualify for a public defender and advised him to secure private legal counsel.
As the community watches closely, Ito’s preliminary hearing for the first case has been scheduled for January 16, ensuring that this case will continue to be a focal point of local and potentially national interest due to its disturbing implications.
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