Cheyenne Elementary School Teacher Charged with 16 Sex Crimes

Strategic Insights -

A 55-year-old fifth-grade teacher in Cheyenne, Wyoming, has been charged with 16 sex crimes, including third-degree and second-degree sexual abuse of a minor, after allegations arose of him inappropriately touching his female students. According to an affidavit released by the Cheyenne Circuit Court, Brian Wrhel was placed on administrative leave on May 16, and the investigation began on May 20 after a call was made to the Cheyenne Police Department regarding multiple counts of potential sexual abuse of a minor. The alleged abuse took place at an LCSD1 elementary school, with the incidents reported to have started in August 2024 and continued until May 2025.

Key Takeaways:

  • Brian Wrhel, a 55-year-old fifth-grade teacher, has been charged with 16 sex crimes, including seven third-degree sexual abuse of a minor and nine second-degree abuse of a minor.
  • The alleged abuse took place at an LCSD1 elementary school, with the incidents reported to have started in August 2024 and continued until May 2025.
  • Wrhel touched the students' breasts, thighs, bottoms, genitalia, torsos, and backs during class.
  • Six victims were identified during the investigation, all of whom are girls who were interviewed forensically at Safe Harbor.
  • The abuse was described as varying acts of sexual abuse, including Wrhel touching the victims' private parts under their clothing.
  • One victim, a 10-year-old, recalled Whrel touching her inappropriately every day, as many as three times per day.
  • A special needs paraeducator assigned to a student in Whrel's class reported that she had noticed early in the school year that Wrhel was more touchy with the female students than the male students.
  • Wrhel worked at Jessup Elementary School until 2021, when he was sued alongside other school officials due to disputes surrounding his handling of COVID-19 policies.

Statistics:

  • 16 sex crimes charged against Brian Wrhel, including 7 third-degree and 9 second-degree sexual abuse of a minor.
  • Up to 15 years in prison and/or a $10,000 fine for third-degree charges.
  • Up to 20 years in prison and/or a $10,000 fine for second-degree charges.
  • Investigation began on May 20 and spanned from August 2024 to May 2025.
  • 6 victims identified during the investigation, all girls.
  • Up to 3 times per day, a 10-year-old victim recalled Whrel touching her inappropriately.

Sources:

  • Wyoming Tribune Eagle (Cheyenne, Wyo.)
  • Affidavit released by the Cheyenne Circuit Court