News

Probation for former teacher for sex with student

Photo: Comstock, Photos.com

Jul 12, 2012 at 7:41 am

ST. PAUL, MN (AP) - A former high school English teacher in Elk River was sentenced to five years' probation for a sexual relationship with a student who said she never wanted him prosecuted.

Matthew Ellsworth, 36, of St. Paul admitted having the relationship with a girl who was 17 at the time. At his sentencing Wednesday in Ramsey County on a criminal sexual conduct charge, he said he and the girl ''could not help falling in love.''

Judge Gary Bastian ordered Ellsworth to register as a predatory offender for at least 10 years. But he also dismissed a no-contact order between Ellsworth and his former student.

The St. Paul Pioneer Press reports that Ellsworth and the girl, now 18, hugged in the courtroom after the hearing.