BENTONVILLE -- A former Gravette teacher was sentenced to six years in the Arkansas Department of Correction after he pleaded guilty to sexually assaulting two boys.
Harry Don Almond, 63, of Bella Vista pleaded guilty Monday to two counts of sexual assault in the second degree, a felony punishable with a prison sentence ranging from five to 20 years. He pleaded guilty under an agreement attorney Kevin Holmes reached with Stuart Cearley, chief deputy prosecutor.
Almond was arrested Oct. 27, 2015.
A student who wanted to earn money agreed to help Almond move and went to his home Oct. 26. The student later told police they took a break and were sitting on a couch when Almond exposed the student's stomach and went to unfasten his pants. The student told police Almond touched him, according to court documents.
Police later recorded a telephone conversation between the student and Almond, who admitted he touched the student's crotch, but urged the student not to say anything about it.
Police learned of the second boy while investigating the case.
Almond resigned his position at Gravette High School where he taught computer and business classes for grades nine through 12.
Benton County Circuit Judge Brad Karren accepted Almond's guilty plea.
Almond must abide by a suspended sentence agreement for 10 years after his release from prison and will be required to register as a sex offender.
NW News on 03/28/2017