TUCSON (AZ)
Diocese of Tucson [Tucson AZ]
March 26, 2026
The Diocese of Tucson is aware that Timothy James Sonier, a seasonal athletic coach at Salpointe Catholic High School was arrested and charged with ten counts of sexual exploitation of a minor. His employment at the school ended in January. The diocese takes these allegations very seriously and is cooperating fully with law enforcement as they conduct their investigation.
Salpointe Catholic High School has notified the students and families who have had direct interaction with the suspect. The safety and well-being of all students remain our highest priority. To ensure that the diocese fully supports the students, counselors will be made immediately available to the student body and school staff.
The Diocese of Tucson requires that all employees and volunteers complete a rigorous background check before ministering or working in the diocese.
To preserve the integrity of the investigation and to respect the privacy of all individuals involved, the diocese will not be making any further comment at this time. If you have any information about possible sexual abuse, the diocese urges you to contact local law enforcement. The Diocese of Tucson asks everyone to hold in prayer all those affected at this difficult time.