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Craig youth minister found dead after sex assault arrest

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

CRAIG ” A youth minister who had worked at First Christian Church since 2000 and was arrested on allegations he sexually assaulted two girls, was found dead in his home Tuesday, authorities said.

John Graler, 53, was arrested Monday for investigation of felony charges of sexual assault, sexual assault on a child and sexual assault on a child by a person in a position of trust, Moffat County sheriff’s investigator Sgt. K.C. Hume said.

Graler was released after posting $50,000 bail. In a statement released to the Craig Daily Press, Moffat County sheriff’s officials said deputies were called to Graler’s home shortly after 7 p.m.



Foul play was not suspected in Graler’s death and officials declined to comment on a cause.

Hume said in a statement that several people have provided information to investigators about the alleged crimes, which occurred within the past six years when the girls were between 13 and 18 years old. He declined to be more specific because the investigation was still under way.



Church officials have said they are cooperating with investigators.


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