On Saturday, December 20, 2025, the Grand Forks Police Department received a report of potential inappropriate conduct towards students by a Valley Middle School staff member. It was alleged the Valley Middle School staff member was attempting to solicit sexually explicit images from students.
The investigation into this activity continued throughout the weekend and on Monday December 22, 2025, at approximately 11:00 am a search warrant was executed at a residential address in Grand Forks. Evidence obtained throughout the investigation and during this search led to the arrest of 31-year-old Grand Forks resident Malaun Nelson, a Valley Middle School Classroom Specialist.
A preliminary charge of Promoting or Directing an Obscene Sexual Performance by a Minor, a Class A felony, has been forwarded to the Grand Forks County States Attorney’s Office for consideration. The Grand Forks School District was made aware of the reported activity and has been working with the Police Department throughout the investigation.
The investigation remains open and active; it is believed there is potential for additional victims who have yet to be identified. If any students believe they had interactions with Malaun Nelson that were inappropriate, they are encouraged to speak with their parents and contact Detective Jennifer Freeman at 701-740-6708 or jfreeman@grandforksgov.com.
