– former DA teacher Jeffrey Clayton sentencing
– former students react to Jeffrey Clayton sentencing.
Accident – Death – Obituary News :
A former music teacher at Douglas Anderson School of the Arts has been sentenced to 10 years in prison today. Jeffrey Clayton pleaded guilty to sexual misconduct with a minor.
The court hearing on Friday was emotional for many, particularly for the girls who bravely testified against Clayton. Former students and a school board member expressed relief at finally getting some closure.
Clayton was led away in handcuffs to serve his 10-year prison sentence, followed by 3 years of probation.
Judge Condemns Clayton’s Actions
During the sentencing, the judge admonished Clayton, saying, “You should have known better, you were the adult in this situation.”
One witness, identified as J.C., remarked, “It has been a long time coming, for sure.”
Clayton, who served as the former vocal chair at Douglas Anderson School of the Arts, was arrested last year and recently pleaded guilty to sex crimes involving a 16-year-old student.
Testimonies from the student, who has since graduated, and a recorded phone call between Clayton and the student were presented in court. The judge described the interaction as “creepy.”
Another recent graduate, J.C., also testified against Clayton as a witness.
Community Reacts to Sentencing
Reacting to the sentencing, former DA student Shyla Jenkins said, “It isn’t only creepy, it was disgusting.” Jenkins, who graduated in 2002, expressed shock at how long the misconduct had been going on.
School board member Dr. Lori Hershey also commented on the sentence, saying, “It was an emotional day in the courtroom, but we have a responsibility to keep students safe and I applaud the courage of the women who spoke up.”
Dr. Hershey reassured the community that the district is working to improve safety measures.
J.C. expressed her happiness at being able to help other girls in the future.
As part of his sentence, Clayton will have to adhere to sexual offender conditions that prohibit him from interacting with children.
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1. former students react to sentencing of former DA teacher Jeffrey Clayton
2. former students reaction to sentencing of former DA teacher Jeffrey Clayton.
