Just one day before the start of a trial, a former educator from Jefferson County Public Schools admitted guilt to multiple charges of child sexual abuse.
Christopher Morris, 52, opted for an Alford plea, acknowledging guilt while maintaining his innocence, on 37 counts of child sex abuse.
Morris faced arrest in June 2022, following allegations from police regarding the sexual abuse of two teenagers. During that period, Morris worked with JCPS and served as a coach for a traveling basketball team affiliated with the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU).
“Adults should serve as protectors of our children, not predators towards them. This is especially true if they are in a position of trust,” Commonwealth’s Attorney Gerina Whethers said in a news release.
Morris faced serious legal repercussions, being indicted on 38 counts of criminal conduct, which encompassed sexual abuse of a minor and sodomy. Authorities reported that the offenses occurred from August 2012 to May 2022, involving one victim who was below 16 years of age and another who was under 18.
On Monday, Morris admitted guilt to two charges of illegal dealings with a minor, classified as a class B felony, along with 13 charges of sexual abuse and 22 charges of sodomy.
The agreement results in a 20-year sentence for Morris. Morris is anticipated to face two consecutive 10-year sentences, amounting to a total of 20 years behind bars, as stated by the Office of Commonwealth’s Attorney. He will need to complete 85% of his sentence prior to being considered for parole. Morris is required to register as a sex offender and participate in a treatment program designed for sex offenders.
On December 4, Judge Eric Haner will deliver the sentence for Morris.