Manager of Tierra Learning Center’s Coyote House arrested amid investigation

Editor’s Note: This story has been updated with additional information provided to Ward Media by the Tierra Learning Center Board of Directors, including details about the nature of the allegations under investigation, actions taken by the organization, the dismissal of Executive Director Meeche White, and statements from board leadership regarding reporting concerns and resident safety

LEAVENWORTH — The manager of Tierra Learning Center’s Coyote House, a family home for adults with special needs and disabilities, has been arrested for criminal mistreatment and failure to report amid an ongoing investigation into an alleged sex offense involving residents. 

Chelan County Sheriff Mike Morrison said the investigation began as a result of an initial report in January 2026. Morrison confirmed that Coyote House Manager Matt Woods, a 38-year-old male from Wenatchee, was arrested on April 9. Woods was booked on violations of RCW 74.34.053 Failure to Report and for RCW 9A.42.037, Criminal Mistreatment 4th degree.

In a statement sent to Ward Media, Tierra Learning Center Board of Directors said they were notified of allegations that a Coyote House resident was suspected of having engaged in sexual activity with two other residents in late January, and has not lived in the house since then.

The board added that it received no reports that Woods was engaged in sexual contact with any Coyote House residents. They understood the arrest stemmed from whether reporting was full and adequate, and whether all needed safety steps were taken to protect the residents. 

The board said it contacted Washington Adult Protective Services promptly, offering cooperation with the state and Chelan County Sheriff’s Office as they conduct their confidential investigation. It also placed Executive Director Meeche White on administrative leave when it learned of the allegations. As of Wednesday, April 15, White was dismissed from her position, according to the board.

“The Board believes we did not receive the unvarnished facts, in a timely manner,” said Board President Susan Albert. “Our focus is on taking all steps necessary to see that this does not happen in the future. If we learn new relevant, information we will report this to our resident families and, if appropriate, to the public.”

The ongoing investigation is being conducted alongside the Department of Social and Health Services’ Adult Protective Service and the Residential Care Services, according to Sheriff Morrison, adding that no further information will be released at this time.

The Tierra Learning Center is a 501(c)(3) that specializes in programs for adults with special needs and disabilities, including programs for arts and independent living skills in addition to its on-site adult family home.