On Monday in St. Louis County District Court in Virginia, the Honorable Judge Robert Friday sentenced Ryan Ross Denzer-Johnson, 44, to 216 months in prison for two counts of Criminal Sexual Conduct in the First Degree involving a minor child under the age of 14, St. Louis County Attorney Kim Maki said. This sentence reflects the maximum sentence outlined under the Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines.
During a court hearing on Nov. 12, Denzer-Johnson pleaded guilty to two Counts of Criminal Sexual Conduct in the First Degree involving a minor child under the age of 14 in connection with assaults that were committed by him between March of 2023 and July of 2024.
Denzer-Johnson formerly taught mathematics at Northeast Range and later Mesabi East, alongside his involvement in the both schools’ robotics programs. He is no longer employed at either district. Denzer- Johnson additionally worked with other adolescents as a youth leader at a local church.
In a forensic interview, the victim disclosed that Denzer-Johnson — who knew her beyond his roles in the schools and the ministry, had assaulted her on multiple instances over a significant period of time.
Denzer-Johnson admitted in a statement to law enforcement at least three specific instances in which he assaulted the girl. He also told officers he “can’t tell (them) that that never happened other times.” In addition, Denzer-Johnson stated he “can’t guarantee there wasn’t some grooming before (the incidents). There probably was.” He admitted he had known for years that he was inclined toward such misconduct.
“The maximum sentence issued by Judge Friday in this case reflects the seriousness of crimes committed against children and sends a clear message that our community will not tolerate such harm,” said County Attorney Maki. “We recognize the extraordinary courage and strength shown by the victim in coming forward and engaging in the criminal justice process. Their bravery helped ensure accountability and justice.”
The St. Louis County Attorney’s Office thanks the St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office and the St. Louis County Public Health and Human Services Department for their diligent work in this matter.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant County Attorney Amber Pederson.
