Jesse McCann, a former Atlantic High School staff member, was arrested in Adair County. McCann is charged with Sexual Exploitation by a School Employee. In Iowa, this crime is a “class D” felony. According to “Iowa Felony Crimes by Class and Sentences” by Rebecca Pirius, a class D felony is “the least serious type of felony in Iowa, [and] is normally punishable by up to 5 years’ imprisonment and a fine of between $1,025 and $10,245.” According to Western Iowa Today, the investigation into McCann, which led to these charges, was conducted by the Stuart Police Department. The charges involve allegations made by a former West Central Valley student, where McCann was previously employed. The crimes alleged against him occurred approximately 10 years ago. Criminal charges, such as the one against McCann, are just accusations and are not definitive evidence of any criminal activity.
McCann Arrested on Sexual Exploitation Charges
NEWS BRIEF
May 11, 2026
Jesse McCann
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About the Contributors
John McCurdy, Staff Writer
John McCurdy is a freshman in journalism for his first year. He joined journalism because he’s always been interested in the field. He said, “In fourth grade I made my own newspaper and I work at a radio station.” McCurdy finds his favorite part of journalism “Hard to narrow…down.” Since joining journalism, he has been able to expand his writing skills.
McCurdy is also involved in Civil Air Patrol, speech and debate, drama, tennis, cross country, and 4-H as an officer. Furthermore, he volunteers at local organizations. In his free time, or as he says “what’s left of it,” he enjoys short wave radio science, reading, writing, building model airplanes, and Bible study. In the future, he plans to go to a service academy and receive a commission in the US Military.
Story by Gabrielle Engler
Taliya James, AHS Needle Lead Editor
Taliya James is a senior at AHS. She is the lead editor of AHSNeedle. She runs AHSNeedle.com, edits stories, and runs all of the social media.
James recently posted a video that is filled with emotion. James stated, “We asked students what they wish teachers knew and it has been a challenge for me to figure everything out.” The video got the best of SNO.
There is so much room for growth and improvement in journalism. “The creativity is amazing. I learn so much from my editors every day. I also love reading and writing so that’s a plus,” James said. There are so many aspects of journalism and so many new things that can be learned and a lot of new friends you can make.
Journalists have a life outside of school or their job nobody knows about. James is a cheerleader, dancer, competitive dancer, and she helps in the fall plays occasionally. Many people have many interesting things about them that nobody knows about. “I was born with gastroschisis. 98% of my intestines were outside of my body and I had to go through intense surgeries to save my life. I don’t have a belly button either,” James said.
“I love to write poetry. I also love to read and listen to the rain. I also play a lot of Hayday in my free time,” James said, “I am super open-minded, which makes me super easy to talk to.”
James looks up to English teacher Allison Berryhill. “She always pushes me to do better and inspires me to go the distance for my future,” James said. Ms. Berryhill inspired her to go to college for secondary education in English. The one person who knows James best is her sister Tayzun. “She is my other half. I can just look at her and she knows everything,” James said.
Author: Mollie Gill