Authorities in Camden County announced the arrest of 26-year-old Jason D. Howe, a chemistry teacher and athletic coach at Sterling High School, on Thursday, April 9, 2026. Howe faces multiple felony charges following an investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct involving a student.
Local law enforcement officials confirmed that Howe was taken into custody earlier today. The charges include second-degree sexual assault and second-degree endangering the welfare of a child.
Howe was a prominent member of the school faculty, serving as a chemistry teacher and coaching several athletic programs. His roles included coaching boys and girls cross country, freshman boys basketball, and acting as an assistant coach for the girls track team.
The investigation was spearheaded by the local prosecutor’s office and the Somerdale Police Department. Detectives initiated the probe after receiving reports concerning the teacher's relationship with a female student.
According to the prosecutor’s office, the victim was at least 16 years old but under the age of 18 at the time of the alleged incidents. Investigators determined that Howe and the student engaged in sexual intercourse at his private apartment.
The school district has not yet issued a formal public statement regarding Howe’s employment status. However, local authorities emphasized that the safety of students remains their primary concern during the ongoing legal process.
If convicted on all counts, Howe faces a significant term of incarceration. Second-degree sexual assault in New Jersey carries a potential sentence of up to 10 years in state prison.
The arrest has caused a stir within the Somerdale community, where Sterling High School is located. Parents and students have expressed concern over the allegations involving a staff member who held multiple leadership positions within the school athletic department.
Howe remains in custody pending his initial court appearance. Prosecutors have indicated that the investigation remains active as they review additional evidence related to the case. Legal counsel for Howe has not yet released a public statement regarding the specific allegations.