ZANESVILLE - Despite a six-year recommendation by the state, a former Foxfire teacher was sentenced to two years in prison for having sex with one of her students.

Apryl Patterson, a 26-year-old intervention specialist, became sexually involved with a 17-year-old male student in November 2017. Over the next five months, Patterson engaged in sexual activity with the student on several occasions at her home in St. Clairsville.

Patterson admitted to having sex with him after the student told his parents about the relationship.

According to Assistant Prosecutor Ron Welch, text messages were recovered from Patterson's phone indicating that on at least one occasion she purchased beer for herself and the student to consume at her apartment where they engaged in sexual activity.

Patterson was placed on administrative leave immediately following the April 29, 2018, complaint filed by the victim's parents. She was instructed to have no contact with the victim.

Ignoring that instruction, Patterson attempted to make contact with the student through an employee at the school, and her employment was then terminated according to Welch.

According to Ohio Revised Code 2907.04, a 16-year-old can consent to sex with an individual over the age of 18. However, it is illegal if the act was forced, coerced, or the perpetrator is in a position of power over the victim, like a teacher, coach, parent or guardian.

In addition to prison time, Patterson is required to register as a Tier III sex offender for the rest of her life and forfeit her license.

cschultz3@gannett.com

740-450-6758

Twitter: @infoobtainer1