Music Teacher Guilty of Sex with Student

(La Mesa, California) In October 2007, a 22-year-old music teacher and band director at Helix High School, Jessica Ashley Kahal, was arrested on suspicion of having sex with a 17-year-old male student.

Douglas D. Smith, Helix High School principal, became aware of the sexual relationship and alerted authorities.

Subsequently, the alleged victim, a senior at the school, said that he had consensual sex with Kahal about five times in various areas of the county since August.

Yesterday, Kahal pleaded guilty to unlawful sexual intercourse with a minor at least three years younger. El Cajon Superior Court Judge Patricia K. Cookson scheduled sentencing for February 13th. Since Kahal has no prior criminal record, the judge said she wouldn't do jail time.

Kahal resigned her position with the school in October.

Tip: Don Morgenstern


[Update 02/14/08]

Kahal sentenced to probation.