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A former teacher in Gillette was taken into custody this month on multiple counts relating to sexual abuse of minors, an arrest that has reopened questions about student safety and staff oversight in Campbell County. The case, laid out in a court affidavit, ties alleged incidents to school grounds, private residences and social media interactions and remains under active investigation.
Matthew Herrman was arrested in Gillette on June 20 after a traffic stop, according to court records and statements from Campbell County School District 1. Law enforcement lodged a total of 18 counts against him — the bulk classified as first‑degree sexual abuse of a minor.
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Charges and alleged conduct
The complaint filed in the Sixth Judicial District alleges a range of offenses spanning years and involving multiple young victims. Prosecutors list:
- 16 counts of first‑degree sexual abuse of a minor
- 1 count of second‑degree sexual abuse of a minor
- 1 count of third‑degree indecent and immoral liberties, reportedly tied to showing pornographic material to a child
According to the affidavit, incidents occurred at several locations, including residences identified as Herrman’s parents’ home and the homes of victims. One of the alleged victims described a series of encounters from 2021 to 2022; another — identified as an eighth‑grade student — said at least one encounter happened in a classroom during sixth hour and others at his apartment.
That student told investigators Herrman claimed to have had a vasectomy, a statement the affidavit says was used to allay fears about pregnancy.
Social media, classroom access and colleagues’ concerns
Investigators say Herrman used platforms such as TikTok and Snapchat to follow and message students, and that he sought or exchanged nude images. The affidavit also asserts he showed pornographic material to a nine‑year‑old.
Fellow staff members described behavior they found troubling while Herrman worked at Twin Spruce Junior High School — students spending time in his classroom for snacks, and interactions some colleagues labeled as “flirtatious.” Herrman was employed there from August 2022 until his January 2023 resignation, which came after administrators confronted him about messages sent to a 17‑year‑old student at Thunder Basin High School.
Background cited in court filing
The affidavit recounts episodes beyond the school setting, including allegations from Herrman’s military service. It says he was discharged from the Army after claims he engaged in sexual relationships with multiple trainees while serving as a drill sergeant, and that he fathered a child with an underage girl while stationed in Colorado; it adds he is paying child support.
Investigators also reported concerns about substance use and a history of consuming pornography; the affidavit says Herrman sought treatment for a reported cocaine addiction in May 2026.
Where the case stands
Campbell County School District 1 confirmed it was notified of the investigation in June and is cooperating with the Gillette Police Department. District officials said they remain focused on student safety but declined further comment while law enforcement continues its probe.
- Arrest: June 20, traffic stop in Gillette
- Employment at Twin Spruce: August 2022–January 2023; resigned after reports of inappropriate messaging
- Investigative focus: multiple victims, alleged in‑person and online conduct, locations including schools and private residences
- Legal status: charged and in custody pending court proceedings; presumed innocent until convicted
The allegations, if proven, raise immediate questions about how staff conduct is monitored and how social media and in‑person access to students are policed. Parents, district officials and the community will likely be watching for any policy reviews, personnel file disclosures where legally possible, and the timing of upcoming court hearings that will move the case forward.
Herrman is presumed innocent until a court determines otherwise. Local prosecutors and the police department have not announced a trial date; further details are expected as the investigation progresses and formal charges are litigated.
