Founder of HOPE for Prisoners Arrested | Las Vegas News

Jon Ponder, founder of HOPE for Prisoners, is facing 20 serious sexual assault charges after being arrested and appearing in court with a $200K bail set under strict conditions — including no weapons, no contact with victims, surrendering his passport, and electronic monitoring. The investigation began with the Inspector General’s office before shifting to Las Vegas Metro PD. HOPE for Prisoners has placed him on administrative leave, calling the allegations “shocking” and “contrary to our values,” while assuring operations will continue. Alleged incidents occurred at facilities like Jean Conservation Camp and Casa Grande Transition Housing, with victims reporting unwanted advances and coercion tied to support from Ponder’s organization. Police are urging anyone with information or who may have been victimized to come forward. Ponder, previously pardoned by Trump in 2020 for a bank robbery, remains in custody. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/387a7964194166ca