According to court documents, Joseph Michael Uryan Gunderson, was booked into the Oneida County Jail on September 13, charged with three counts of felony rape and one count of lewd conduct with a child under 16.

The Sheriff’s office responded to a call from a Malad area school about a 20 year-old man who had been making inappropriate requests for naked images from students.  As a result of the investigation, the victim told detectives that Gunderson had initiated a relationship with her that began on Snapchat.  Gunderson allegedly used coercion, enticement, and threats of violence against the victim and her family to perpetuate the crimes, which eventually became physical.  

After being assaulted, the victim may have been too frightened to report the incidents initially, though eventually told a teacher and counselor, who contacted the Sheriff’s Office.

Gunderson was arraigned Monday; no further court dates have been scheduled.  If Gunderson is convicted of the crimes, he could face life in prison.  

This horrifying situation is an important reminder that parents should stay vigilant about their kids’ communication on social media, and a reminder to everyone to be cautious about the intentions of those they communicate with.  Predators who operate like Gunderson is alleged to rely on their victims being too afraid to speak out, and the courage of the victim in this case should be noted.  

As has recently been written about in the pages of our previous issues, there are a number of community resources for those who find themselves in situations where they do not know where to go for help.  A school teacher and counselor are excellent sources to turn to, as in this case.  The Oneida Crisis Center also has an emergency help line, which can be called at any time by dialing 208-766-3119.  It is easy to imagine that things like this do not happen in our community, but they do.  It takes a community to fight against predators, and to provide a safe and supportive place for their victims.  

Chief Deputy Doug Williams restated the importance of being aware of social media situations, especially those involving cell phones.  Williams said, “You’ve really got to watch it.  From my experience, parents feel they’re invading their kids’ privacy, but until they’re eighteen you’ve got to protect them.  Educate them on what’s out there,”.

Although Gunderson has been charged, he has not yet been tried or found guilty and is therefore presumed innocent until the resolution of the trial.