DENVER (KDVR) — A former Poudre School District counselor has been arrested after allegedly having an “inappropriate relationship with a student for several years”, said the city of Fort Collins.

On Tuesday, the city of Fort Collins said in a press release that Cassandra Poncelow, 40, has been arrested on multiple charges, including sexual assault on a child by one in a position of trust, following an investigation into Poncelow’s employment at the school district.

The city of Fort Collins said that a report was made to Fort Collins Police Services in July that a former counselor at the school district had an inappropriate relationship with a student while employed.

Detectives, following the report, initiated an investigation into Poncelow, who was an employee with the school district between 2007 and 2024.

The investigation revealed that Poncelow allegedly had an “inappropriate relationship” with a student, who was a juvenile at that time, and for several years, “sexually assaulted the student on multiple occasions off campus,” said the city.

“We are actively working to support the victim and ensure accountability, knowing that cases like this deeply affect, not only those directly involved, but the entire community. Our priority remains centered on the victim’s well-being and the thoroughness of this investigation. I am appreciative of the diligent efforts by our Crimes Against Persons detectives in this case,” said Lieutenant Sara Lynd, who oversees the FCPS Crimes Against Persons Unit.

A former Poudre School District counselor, Cassandra Poncelow, 40, has been arrested in a child sexual abuse case after allegedly having “an inappropriate relationship with a student.” (Credit: Larimer County Sheriff’s Office)

Poncelow was arrested on Tuesday and booked into the Larimer County Jail on the following charges:

  • Felony sexual assault on a child by one in a position of trust – pattern of abuse with an enhancer of crime of violence
  • Felony criminal attempt to commit sexual exploitation of children
  • Felony aggravated sexual assault on a client by a psychotherapist
  • Felony sexual assault

In the press release, the city said the school district has been cooperative during the investigation. FOX31 reached out to Poudre School District regarding the incident, and a spokesperson for the school district said that they are “aware” of the arrest and also included the following:

“These allegations are deeply troubling. The district has fully cooperated with law enforcement throughout the investigation. The safety and well-being of our students are our highest priority. We are committed to maintaining a safe, supportive learning environment and to responding with transparency and care.”

The school district also noted that Poncelow was assigned to the following sites at various times during her tenure:

  • Cache la Poudre Middle School
  • Career Tech Center
  • Fort Collins High School
  • Irish Elementary School
  • Lincoln Middle School
  • Poudre High School
  • Rocky Mountain High School
  • Webber Middle School

The city said detectives are concerned there might be more victims or witnesses of additional criminal behavior related to Poncelow, and those who might be a victim or have information related to this case are asked to contact Larimer County Crime Stoppers at 970-221-6868.