UPDATE
John A. Bender, a former computer teacher at Gateway Elementary School was found not guilty of molesting a 10-year-old girl in a case that began in 2008.
Prosecutors alleged Bender fondled a fourth grade girl in a closet at the school in 2007.
A jury found Bender not guilty of three counts of child molestation and abuse, but was hung on three counts of statutory sodomy and child molestation.
At the conclusion of the trial, St. Louis Circuit Court Judge, Angela Quigless, announced that a new trial will be scheduled for the three undecided counts.
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According to authorities, Bender had inappropriate physical contact with a then - 12 year old female student who attended the school.
Police say Bender's alleged activities occurred back in September of 2007. Police first became aware of the alleged behavior when the child reported the incident to authorities.
But that's not where the case ends.
Police have also charged Richard Sirna, the school's principal, in the case. He faces one charge for failing to report the matter to proper authorities.
School officials who receive information about suspected abuse or neglect are required by law to report the information to social services.
According to police, the alleged activity was reported to Sirna, who allegedly did nothing.
Bender has been placed on paid suspension since the district learned of the allegations of inappropriate sexual behavior last November, said district spokeswoman Deborah Sistrunk.
Bender has been ordered held on 100,000 bond, pending his next hearing. The principal is expected to appear in court for his next hearing on May 15th.
Danny Vice
The Weekly Vice
http://weeklyvice.blogspot.com
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