MERCER COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A former Mercer County teacher and coach who pleaded guilty to two counts of sending obscene matter with the intent to seduce a minor.
According to Prosecuting Attorney Brian Cochran, James Stehlin, Jr. of Edenton, NC, and formerly of Princeton, WV, was sentenced to the maximum of 5 years on each count, consecutively, for a total of 10 years. Stehlin was also sentenced to 25 years of extended supervision upon release and a lifetime requirement to register as a sex offender.
Cochran represented the State, and JJ McPherson represented the defendant. Judge Derek Swope sentenced Stehlin.
Prosecutor Cochran praised the efforts of law enforcement in conducting a thorough investigation and thanked the child victims for their cooperation in the prosecution of Stehlin. Cochran further stated that the charges against Stehlin do not stem from his employment in Mercer County. “Stehlin was not employed by Mercer County schools at the time of these crimes,” Cochran said. “We have excellent teachers and coaches throughout Mercer County who are dedicated to the education, well-being, and safety of our kids. I am confident that his crimes are not in any way a reflection on our school system or athletic department.”
