Female Teacher Gets Two Years in Sex Case

(Castle Rock, Colorado) Last March, Ponderosa High School social studies teacher Nicole Andrea Barnhart was charged with felony sexual assault of a troubled 16-year-old male student. Barnhart had been spending considerable time with the boy, ostensibly providing counseling for suicidal thoughts and for alcohol and cocaine abuse. Ultimately, she engaged in a sexual relationship with the sophomore.

Today, after nine months of legal wrangling, 36-year-old Barnhart accepted the terms of a plea agreement which sends her to prison for two years. In accordance with the agreement, the married mother of two will plead guilty to sexual assault on a child and criminal attempt to commit sexual assault on a child. Douglas County District Court Judge Paul King set sentencing for January 3 when she will receive at least ten years probation in addition to the prison term. Barnhart will also have to register as a sex offender.

In a related development, the victim's parents have notified the Douglas County School District of their intent to file a lawsuit seeking $2 million in damages.


[Update 03/25/06]

Barnhart sentenced in accordance with the plea deal.