FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 8, 2026
Former Wilder Teacher Sentenced to Prison for
Sexual Battery of a Minor Student
Caldwell, Idaho – Third Judicial District Judge Thomas W. Whitney sentenced Juvent Josue Ramirez (35) to 14 years in prison, with 3 years fixed before he is eligible for parole, following his conviction for sexually abusing a minor student.
Ramirez, a former business teacher at the Canyon-Owyhee School Service Agency (COSSA) in Wilder, was convicted of felony sexual battery of a minor. The case stemmed from incidents in which Ramirez groomed and manipulated a female student, made inappropriate sexual comments, and inappropriately touched her private area over her clothing. Surveillance footage corroborated the victim’s account.
During today’s sentencing hearing, Deputy Prosecutor Stephanie Morse argued for a unified sentence of 25 years, with 7 years fixed before parole eligibility. Morse described the case as “every parent’s worst nightmare,” emphasizing the profound breach of trust by an educator in a position of authority and the lasting harm inflicted on the victim.
Ramirez’s defense attorney asked that the court impose a probation sentence, pointing to Ramirez’s lack of criminal history. But Judge Whitney disagreed. “I won’t do probation today,” Judge Whitney said. “It would be too great of a risk to other young women in the community.” Ultimately, Judge Whitney sentenced the Defendant to 14 years in prison with three years to serve before he will be eligible for parole. Judge Whitney also issued a 50 year no contact order prohibiting Ramirez from communicating with the victim.
“It is difficult to imagine more predatory behavior than a teacher taking advantage of a student,” said Canyon County Prosecuting Attorney Chris Boyd. “Our office remains committed to protecting children and pursuing justice for victims of sexual abuse, and we appreciate the diligent efforts of the Wilder Police Department in bringing this defendant to justice.”
Ramirez will be required to register as a sex offender upon release from prison.
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For more information, please contact our Prosecuting Attorney’s Office at (208)-754-7391
