On February 17, 2026, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office Regional Communications Center received a call which led to a preliminary investigation regarding alleged inappropriate sexual contact between an adult male teacher employed at Pikes Peak State College and a minor.
As a result, the Sheriff’s Office Special Victims Unit initiated an investigation into allegations of sexual assault on a child by a person in a position of trust.
During the investigation, authorities determined 48-year-old Jason Gunderson had engaged in a sexual relationship with a minor student over a period exceeding one year. Investigators found he used his position as a professor, along with his ties to the community, to manipulate the victim into the relationship.
This reportedly included promising the victim a prestigious internship, providing special attention, and manipulating the grading system to ensure the victim received high exam scores.
On March 27, 2026, Gunderson was arrested at his home and booked into the El Paso County Jail on the following charges:
- 77 Counts of Sexual Assault on a Child by One in a Position of Trust
Gunderson is currently being held on a $50,000 bond.