Shocking Revelations in Hadley-Luzerne: Ex-Teacher Keith Powell Faces Jail Time

Shocking Revelations in Hadley-Luzerne: Ex-Teacher Keith Powell Faces Jail Time

HadleyLuzene.com - The Hadley-Luzerne community is buzzing with the latest news as former music teacher Keith Powell, 59, from Corinth, has been handed a 13-month jail sentence. The sentence follows his conviction on two counts of endangering the welfare of a child, after a series of inappropriate encounters with two teenage students at Hadley Luzerne Middle School.

In a case that rocked the quiet towns around Lake Luzerne, NY, Powell was found guilty after a dramatic three-day trial in March. The incidents, which took place in the late winter and early spring of 2008, involved Powell allegedly "grooming" his young students. According to Warren County Assistant District Attorney Kevin Donlon, Powell engaged in behaviors including giving hugs, kisses, and even suggesting cuddling and holding hands, crossing lines that should never be crossed in an educational setting.

The trial revealed disturbing details where Powell reportedly touched one of the girls' legs, commented on their appearances, and engaged in inappropriate conversations about sexual activities. The bravery of these young victims, both under 14 at the time, was highlighted by Donlon, who commended their courage in coming forward.

The situation escalated when a concerned teacher noticed the girls in distress at school, leading to immediate action by the principal and law enforcement. Powell's actions were not isolated incidents; further investigation suggested a pattern of behavior spanning over 30 years, with no admission of full responsibility from Powell himself.

Before sentencing, Lake Luzerne Town Justice Bruce Hayes listened as Donlon described Powell as a "predator" masquerading as an educator. Despite Powell's claims of self-control and no recent interactions with minors, the judge found his comments worrying, leading to the jail sentence followed by three years of probation.

Powell, who was placed on leave post-arrest in April 2008 and retired by year's end, has stirred further controversy as more former students came forward with allegations. His teaching career also spanned districts in the Catskills and Vermont, adding layers to this unsettling narrative.

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