A former middle school teacher from Ohio has been sentenced following her guilty plea for sexually abusing her daughter’s teenage babysitter.
Stefanie Erin Kellenberger, 41, was handed a 15-year prison sentence for engaging in a sexual relationship with a 13-year-old, according to a report by Richland Source.
Kellenberger, who previously taught sixth-grade English at Shelby Middle School, admitted her guilt on four counts of third-degree felony sexual battery and 17 counts of third-degree felony unlawful sexual conduct with a minor on August 1.
Before her guilty plea, prosecutors offered Kellenberger two options: serve 12 years in prison without parole or accept 15 years with the possibility of judicial release after 10 years. She chose the latter.
The former teacher will also be mandated to register as a Tier III sex offender, requiring her to update her status every 90 days for life following her release.
Judge Brent Robinson emphasized that the 15-year sentence is meant to be fully served.
“Let there be no misunderstanding, this is a definitive 15-year prison term, with the possibility of you (Kellenberger) returning after 10 years as a model inmate with no instances of trouble,” Robinson stated, as reported by the Richland Source.
Kellenberger has also agreed to give up her teaching credential permanently, avoid any future contact with the victim, and face five years of parole post-release.
The abusive actions began in February 2020, when Kellenberger’s victim was only 13. The relationship reportedly escalated as the victim turned 14 and continued until she reached 16.
Kellenberger was placed on paid administrative leave in February 2024 once the allegations surfaced.
During the sentencing proceedings, Kellenberger expressed remorse to her victim, who was also her daughter’s babysitter.
“I realize that during this period, you were merely a child while I was an adult in a position of authority. I take full responsibility for everything that transpired between us,” Kellenberger stated.
“I placed you in a situation that no young person should ever endure. I sincerely apologize for the emotional distress and pain I’ve caused. I hope my guilty plea and this sentence bring you some form of closure as you continue your journey,” she added.
Additionally, she apologized to her young daughter as well.
“I deeply regret the situation I’ve created for everyone involved and the consequences it will have on my child,” Kellenberger noted.
“I completely accept the repercussions of my actions and the sentence being imposed today.”
