Ex-Teacher Hid Missing Teen For 8 Months

Jobe Binkley, a former teacher in Ohio, has been charged with interference with custody for allegedly harboring a missing 16-year-old girl in his Springfield home. The teenager had been missing since December 2, 2025, after reportedly running away from a group home.

Authorities located the girl in Binkley's residence on August 21, 2026, after a search that spanned over eight months. Police records indicate that officers had previously visited Binkley's home on two occasions while searching for the missing minor. During these visits, Binkley allegedly denied entry and stated the teen was not present, despite being aware she was an active missing person.

Binkley, 48, has pleaded not guilty to the charge and was released on bond. A pre-trial hearing is scheduled for September 30, 2026. Court records show Binkley was previously placed on administrative leave and later fired by the Springfield City School District for policy violations, with the district stating they were unaware of the allegations involving the teen until after his employment ended. The connection between Binkley and the girl remains unclear.