A former Chester County English teacher and basketball coach pleaded guilty and was sentenced to a jail term Tuesday on charges that he had sex with a 17-year-old student more than once in June 2008.
Mark Hostutler, 35, was arrested in February after a three-week investigation launched by the young woman's report to police that she and Hostutler had sex on four occasions in 2008, while she was a 17-year-old student of his. Hostutler was a teacher and coach at Coatesville High School. She is now in her 20s.
Hostutler took a deal and pleaded guilty to multiple counts of corruption of minors and endangering the welfare of a child in Chester County Court, Chester County First Assistant District Attorney confirmed Wednesday. He was sentenced to three to 23 months in jail, followed by three years of probation.
Hostutler also coached the Junior Varsity Boys’ Basketball Team at West Chester East.
At the time of the ex-teacher's arrest, Coatesville Area School District Superintendent Dr. Cathy Taschner said there were no reports of improper contact between Hostutler and any other children. The district banned Hostutler from coming onto school property or contacting any students.
“The school district is very troubled by and concerned about these charges and very much regrets any concerns they have caused students, parents, staff and our school community,” said Taschner in a news release. “Counselors will be available to meet with staff and students. Parents who want more information about the investigation should contact Ms. Elizabeth Pitts in the Chester County District Attorney’s office at 610-344-6801. Parents may also contact my office at 610-466-2464.”
Hostutler graduated from Coatesville High and published three books, according to the district.
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Hostutler is serving his sentence as Chester County Prison and surrendered his teaching certificates, according to the Daily Local.
