Middle School Teacher Indicted for Sexual Assault on Students Released with Suspended Sentence

A middle school teacher who forcibly molested two students by hugging them from behind has been released after being sentenced to a suspended prison term by the court.

On the 20th, the 1st Criminal Division of the Incheon District Court Bucheon Branch (Chief Judge Yeo Hyun-joo) sentenced a Mr. A, who was indicted for forced molestation under the Act on the Protection of Children and Youth from Sexual Abuse, to 1 year in prison with a 2-year suspension.

The court also mandated that Mr. A complete 40 hours of sexual violence treatment courses and prohibited him from employment at institutions related to children, youth, or disabled individuals for 5 years.

The court stated in its judgment, "It is not a light offense for a teacher, who should protect their students, to engage in molestation," and criticized, "The children likely felt considerable discomfort and shock." The court displayed a stern perspective on the sexual crimes committed by individuals in an educator's position.

"It is not a light offense for a teacher, who should protect their students, to engage in molestation."

Circumstances of the Agreement with Victimized Students and Details of the Incident

However, the court explained the reasons for the suspended sentence, stating, "Considering that an amicable agreement was reached with one victim and a certain amount was compensated to another victim as well as that the incident was disclosed, leading to immediate arrest and a period of detention."

Mr. A was indicted for allegedly sexually assaulting two students at a middle school in Gyeonggi Province on three separate occasions from November of last year until April of this year.

According to the investigation results, Mr. A committed the forced molestation by hugging the victimized students from behind or touching their waists.

After the incident, the education authorities recognized the initial victimization and conducted a comprehensive investigation. During the investigative process, additional victims were confirmed, leading the education authorities to suspend Mr. A from his position.

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