A substitute teacher from North Carolina, whose tearful mugshot gained attention, has agreed to a plea deal after confessing to an inappropriate relationship with a 15-year-old student.
Katelyn Dawn Schronce, 33, was initially apprehended on April 17, 2025, facing serious charges of statutory rape. This original charge could have resulted in a lengthy sentence of up to 30 years in prison.
However, in a courtroom on Thursday, Schronce accepted a plea agreement by pleading guilty to the charge of indecent liberties with a child. This decision resulted in a reduced sentence ranging from 20 to 33 months of incarceration.
As a part of her sentencing, Schronce, who once served as a substitute teacher in Catawba County, is prohibited from having any contact with the minor involved in this case.
Fox News Digital has reached out to Schronce’s legal representative, Glen Thomas, for further comments on the situation.
Fox News Digital has reached out to Schronce’s attorney, Glen Thomas, for comment.
Katelyn Schronce, a North Carolina substitute teacher, pleads guilty to indecent liberties with a child and receives 20 to 33 months in prison. (Google Maps)
Schronce, 33, who began working as a substitute teacher for Catawba County Schools in October 2024, was fired following the arrest, according to a statement from the school district.
“Catawba County Schools was recently made aware of the arrest of substitute employee Katelyn Schronce for serious criminal charges,” the district said. “There is no indication at this time that the charges are connected to her employment in our district.”
Katelyn Schronce, a North Carolina substitute teacher, pleads guilty to indecent liberties with a child and receives 20 to 33 months in prison. (Google Maps)
“The safety and well-being of our students is our highest priority, and we will continue to cooperate fully with law enforcement as their investigation continues.”
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