Those who worked with Buckeye Union High School principal Joe Kinney are shocked by his arrest this week for attempting to lure a child online.
Kinney stands accused of using a social media app to communicate with an undercover police officer who was posing as a 12-year-old girl.
Kinney, who claims his communications with the officer he believed was a 12-year-old girl, were part of a “fantasy.” He claims he never intended to go through with sexual exploitation of children.
Kinney faces one count of luring a minor for sexual exploitation.
According to KTAR, Kinney allegedly exchanged photos with the “girl” and had explicit conversations, claiming he would “love to come rescue her” from Oregon.
On Tuesday, officials with the Buckeye Union High School District released the following statement:
“The Buckeye Union High School District has been informed that BUHS Principal Mr. Joe Kinney is under law enforcement investigation for a personal matter unrelated to his work with the school or district.
Per district policy, Mr. Kinney has been placed on administrative leave until further notice. In the interim, Ms. Kristin Koke will assume the duties of principal at Buckeye Union High School.
Because this is a personnel matter, we cannot share further details at this time. Our focus is on ensuring our students have access to an outstanding educational experience.”
Dr. Steve Bebee
BUHSD Superintendent