LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — The founder of a local nonprofit organization has been arrested for sexual assault, and Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department detectives believe there could be more victims.
That's according to a news release shared by LVMPD on Tuesday announcing the arrest of 60-year-old Jon Ponder. Police say he was booked into the Clark County Detention Center for the following charges:
- sexual assault
- seven counts of unauthorized custodial contact
- one count of attempted sexually motivated coercion
- 11 gross misdemeanor charges
Las Vegas detectives urged anyone with information about the investigation, or who may have been a victim, to contact detectives at 702-828-3251. Anonymous tips can also be made through Crime Stoppers by calling 702-385-5555 or online at crimestoppersofnv.com.
Ponder is the founder of Hope for Prisoners, an organization that provides support and resources for people who have been incarcerated. He founded Hope for Prisoners in 2010 after serving time in prison for bank robbery.
In 2020, during the Republican National Convention, President Donald Trump issued a pardon for those crimes.
Clark County District Attorney Steve Wolfson, who previously served on the Hope for Prisoners board, confirmed to Channel 13 that he has "removed myself from any decision-making role in the case of the State of Nevada V. Jon Ponder," citing a potential conflict of interest.
"At the same time, the Clark County District Attorney's Office is not in the same position," Wolfson stated. "There is no conflict with regard to the Clark County District Attorney's Office proceeding on this case.”
Signs of HOPE, a local nonprofit that provides support for victims and survivors of abuse and trauma, also issued a statement citing "recent news coverage" and reminding community members of the confidential support and resources the organization offers.
Those who need help or have questions can contact Signs of HOPE advocates through 24/7 hotlines.
- 24/7 Sexual Assault Crisis Hotline: 702-366-1640
- 24/7 Human Trafficking Hotline: 702-936-4004
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