May 23, 2008 - Tommy Thornton, 37, a machines trade teacher and varsity boys basketball coach at West Vigo High School, was arrested, accused of sexual misconduct with a 17-year-old female student. He was charged with child seduction, class-D felony, attempted child seduction, class-D felony and public indecency, a class-A misdemeanor.
Thornton is accused of exposing himself to a 17-year-old female student as well as fondling and rubbing up against her on separate occasions, as well as asking her to “pinky promise” not to tell anyone about the instances and other graphic discussions.An attorney pleaded not guilty on Thornton's behalf. Thornton verbally resigned from West Vigo High School on April 24, with an email resignation on April 28. A trial date of Oct 28th has been scheduled.
NEW TRIAL DATE October 29 - The jury trial is scheduled for April 21.
