Humble dance instructor pleads guilty to sex crimes with student

Posted By Law Offices of Jeffrey C. Grass || 2-Jan-2014

There are some occasions when a person is charged with a crime when there may be significant evidence against them. In these types of situations, when a conviction is highly probable, it may serve the person facing the criminal charges better to work with their attorney and the prosecution in order to reach a plea agreement and avoid a criminal trial. Often these types of deals require an admission of guilt, but they may also offer a reduction of the penalties.

A woman who worked as a dance instructor at a high school near Houston reportedly pled guilty recently to sex crime charges. According to reports, the woman had entered into an inappropriate relationship with one of her female students. The two purportedly engaged in sex at both the school and the woman's home between August of 2010 and November of 2011. Details of how the sexual misconduct came to the attention of law enforcement were not reported.

In Texas, convictions of sex offenses can carry stiff consequences, including a prison sentence and, in some cases, hefty fines. The woman, however, was able to avoid the more severe penalties. She was sentenced to probation and 10 years deferred adjudication. It was not specified whether she would also be required to be entered into the sex offender registry.

Even just the allegations of having committed a sex crime can have serious implications for the person who stands accused. This is why it can be crucial for anyone who has been charged with a criminal offense to consult with a lawyer. An attorney will look out for their interests and may be able to negotiate for lesser charges or penalties.

Source: Huffington Post, "Amanda Feenstra, Texas Dance Instructor, Kept Female Student As 'Sexual Toy': Lawsuit," Andres Jauregui, Dec. 10, 2013