Former middle school teacher gets 20 years for rape of 14-year-old student

A former Tucker Middle School teacher will spend the next 20 years in prison after admitting Monday to raping 14-year-old student.

Mr. Almarcus Thomas pleaded guilty to six counts of child molestation, three counts of statutory rape, sexual battery and invasion of privacy, according to the DeKalb County District Attorney’s Office.

The invasion of privacy count involved Mr. Thomas, 42, taking a photo under the skirt of a female coworker during school.

“These alleged crimes involve a man who preyed on a minor while in a position of authority and respect as an educator,” District Attorney Mr. Robert James said. “This plea reflects the acts of a monster who molested, abused and took advantage of women and children in DeKalb County.

“We hope this begins the healing process for all individuals and families affected by these heinous crimes.”

Prosecutors said Mr. Thomas carried on a sexual relationship with the teen over the course of for about seven months, which ended when he was arrested in March, after the girl’s father reported him to school officials.

As part of the plea agreement, the aggravated part of each count of child molestation was dropped.

Mr. Thomas also was originally charged with three counts of sexual assault against a person in custody and two counts of sexual exploitation of children, but those charges were dropped.

Following his 20-year prison stay, Mr. Thomas will serve 10 years on probation and be required to adhere to the conditions of the state’s sex offender registry.

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