Litchfield, ILLINOIS

October 31, 2008 - Michael J. Wetzell, 31, dean of students at Litchfield High School, was sentenced to five years in prison after he pleaded guilty Thursday to the aggravated battery of a female student.

He was charged in March with sexual assault of a 17-year-old girl at Litchfield High School. Police in Montgomery County say Wetzell also provided that girl with alcohol.

FROM A MARCH STORY: Rumors about a relationship between the girl and Wetzell surfaced in January. School officials investigated but found no evidence of an inappropriate relationship, and Wetzell denied the accusations. In February he resigned, effective at the end of the school year, because his family wanted to move back to Rock Falls. They moved back, while Wetzell stayed behind to finish out the year. Two concerned students called school officials and the police March 17.

Montgomery County State's Attorney Chris Matoush said Thursday that Wetzell must serve at least 85 percent of his sentence, as well as a parole period after he is released ranging from three years to natural life. He also must register as a convicted sex offender.