Teacher Laura Findlay Pleads Guilty

(Saginaw, Michigan) In March 2005, band teacher Laura Findlay of Ricker Middle School was charged with 20 counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct with a person under the age of 16.

Yesterday, Findlay pleaded guilty in Saginaw County Circuit Court to 22 counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct with a person younger than 16 as part of a plea agreement with prosecutors. Findlay admitted to sexual contact with six male students. She faces seven years in prison per the agreement, however, defense lawyer James Piazza stated that Findlay may withdraw her plea if her sentence exceeds seven years.

A sentencing date of August 17 has been scheduled. At that time, the judge, unbound by the plea agreement, could impose a sentence of life in prison.


[Update 07/08/06]

From The Saginaw News:

"She made her choice," he [defense attorney Piazza] said. "If a jury found her guilty, she would be facing life. She decided not to roll the dice with the jury."

Six eighth-graders -- 13 and 14 -- testified during preliminary hearings that Findlay engaged in oral sex with them and gave them lap dances. At least two of them said they penetrated Findlay.

The teens, who were band members and basketball players, said the incidents occurred in the band room or in Findlay's sport utility vehicle behind Fort Saginaw Mall, at Holland and Outer Drive.

Board of Education members did not fire Findlay but laid her off as part of sweeping budget cuts.

A final determination on the status of Findlay's employment will be made after sentencing.

Companion post at The Jawa Report.


[Update 08/17/06]

Laura Findlay sentenced to seven years in prison.