William K. Gardner, 30, appears at a court hearing via video teleconference from the Barren Co. Detention Center.
(WCLU NEWS FILE PHOTO)
GLASGOW — A former Barren County Middle School teacher could face up to 17 years in prison for sexual acts he committed with a minor.
William K. Gardner, 30, of Glasgow, entered the guilty plea on Sept. 6, according to court documents. He was accompanied in court by his attorney, Johnny Bell.
He initially pleaded not guilty following his indictment on three counts of first-degree unlawful transaction with a minor (illegal sex act – under 16 years old) and one count of unlawful use of an electronic means to induce a minor to engage in sexual or other prohibited activities.
Prosecutors recommended the judge sentence Gardner to 17 years in prison, charge him a $1,000 fine and undergo five years of conditional discharge. They also requested he undergo sexual offender risk assessment and comply with recommended treatment. He will also have to register as a sexual offender, according to the recommended sentence.
Prosecutors also recommended the judge to rule against granting Gardner probation or shock probation. As for parole, the prosecution recommended the defendant’s eligibility be limited until he has served at least 85% of his final sentence.
The judge will adjudicate Gardner’s case on Dec. 9. Until then, a pre-sentence investigation is expected. That report is expected to be given to the court at final sentencing and will assist the judge in issuing a final sentencing – especially as it pertains to probation and parole guidelines.