Middle School Principal From Lakeville Arrested In Child Sex Operation

LAKEVILLE, MN — The principal of Eagle Ridge Middle School in Savage was arrested Tuesday in St. Louis Park on the suspicion of the sexual exploitation of minors, according to a news release from the St. Louis Park Police Department.

Mohamed Ali Selim, 38, of Lakeville was arrested along with three other men in an undercover operation, police said. He was charged Thursday with agreeing to hire someone he believed to be 13-16 years old for prostitution.

The charge carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, a fee of up to $20,000, or both, according to a criminal complaint filed in Hennepin County District Court.

Independent School District 191 confirmed that Selim is a principal for Eagle Ridge Middle and released a statement.

"Following these upsetting allegations, the district's immediate and primary concern is for the well-being of our students," district officials said. "Based on the information the district has seen so far, there's no indication that District 191 students are involved. The district will cooperate with law enforcement as they investigate and will take appropriate actions as dictated by district policies and procedures."

Three of the men were booked and then released, but due to Selim's position of authority working with children, he remains in custody at Hennepin County Jail, according to authorities.

"This is a hard day for the school and for the district," said Superintendent Dr. Theresa Battle. "It will be difficult for all of us to process this. At the same time, we will continue our commitment to providing a high quality education and experience for students as we finish the school year."

According to prosecutors, undercover officers placed prostitution ads online. Selim messaged an undercover officer posing as a 15-year-old girl, saying he "would love to come see her," according to the criminal complaint.

Selim at first said that "it wasn't going to work," due to the girl being 15, but then said he would still come see her so they could "spend some time together," prosecutors said.

Selim arrived at the address in St. Louis Park and told the undercover officer he was there, investigators said. He was then arrested and made comments that his life and career were over, according to authorities.

Officers found over $200 cash on Selim and found the messages and calls between him and the undercover officer on Selim's phone, according to prosecutors.

According to the district, Associate Principal Bill Heim will serve as acting principal, and counselors will be available for students and staff.