Norfolk Public Schools paraprofessional charged with sexual assault of a child
LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — A Norfolk Public Schools paraprofessional was arrested on Wednesday after authorities reopened an investigation into the sexual assault of a child.
Jose Ramirez, 32, was arrested on suspicion of third-degree sexual assault of a child following an investigation that opened in July 2022.
The original report filed involved a then-13-year-old male victim, who alleged that Ramirez had inappropriately fondled him on five separate occasions.
Police were also provided with several text messages between the two parties.
The initial investigation was completed and reviewed by the Madison County Attorney’s Office.
At the time, the prosecution was declined due to the available evidence and the suspect’s refusal to speak with authorities.
The case was reopened in January after the allegations resurfaced. Following further investigation, a Norfolk Police detective interviewed Ramirez on Tuesday.
Based on new information obtained during that interview, investigators used probable cause to make an arrest.
Ramirez was taken into custody around 7:15 a.m. on Wednesday. He was housed in the Norfolk City Jail before being moved to the Madison County Jail.
According to a statement from Bill McAllister, the superintendent of NPS, the victim involved is not a student within the Norfolk Public School system, as Ramirez began his employment at NPS Junior High in August 2025.
McAllister said a comprehensive background check was conducted and cleared before his hiring.
“The safety and well-being of our students is our highest priority,” McAlister said in the statement. “Upon notification of the arrest, the District took immediate action to place Mr. Ramirez on administrative leave. He is strictly prohibited from entering any NPS campus or district property.”
Read the full statement below:
