“Some of it took place in places other students could and did not notice it”

Judge Daniel Billings

Mum-of-seven Nancy Leigh Ann Brann, 44, from Windsor, Maine, was sentenced to 2 years and six months after she pleaded guilty to one count of gross sexual assault and one count of sexual contact. 

Superior Court Justice Daniel Billings sentenced her to 12 years, with all but the 2.5 years suspended, in addition to four years probation, during the Tuesday hearing.

It comes after Brann sexually assaulted a 14-year-old pupil, whose gender has not been disclosed, at Coastal Christian School, back in 2016. 

The court heard how the child was abused in a classroom before Brann pursued the victim online. 

As he handed down the sentence, Mr Billings said: “The defendant abused a position of authority and trust and continued to have contact with the victim after she was fired.

“This took place in school. Some of it took place in places other students could and did notice.” 

The judge then indicated that mitigating factors, including Brann’s mental health history, as the reasons behind the sentence. 

He added: “She is someone who sought help and didn’t receive the help she needed.” 

Assistant District Attorney Matthew Gerety argued for more jail time, recommending 10 years.

He said: “The person was a teacher and she took advantage of that position. 

“There is no question about that. She took advantage of the vulnerabilities of a person too young to do anything. It was a power imbalance.” 

Brann was arrested in 2017 and had two criminal charges related to a traffic incident dismissed. 

She is prohibited from contacting the victim, the victim’s family or any child under 18. 

The former teacher must also take certain medication, avoid areas where children congregate and register as a sex offender. 

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