A former Michigan teacher has been sentenced to prison after admitting to having sex with a 16-year-old student she was tutoring and filming the encounters. Jocelyn Sanroman, 27, pleaded guilty to third-degree criminal sexual conduct and received a sentence of four to 15 years behind bars.
Courtroom Remarks
During her sentencing on Tuesday, Sanroman told the court she experienced a lapse in judgment. Judge Cheryl Matthews questioned her actions, asking, "What were you thinking?" Sanroman replied, "Not my best thinking." The judge condemned her behavior as "serious risk-taking behavior" and "disgusting."
Details of the Crime
In 2023, Sanroman, then 26, worked as a teacher at Oakside Scholars Charter School in Waterford Township. She confessed to a coworker that she had sex with a 16-year-old male student she was tutoring at his home. The colleague notified police and school officials. Sanroman was arrested and later pleaded guilty in March 2025.
Her defense attorney cited mental health issues as a contributing factor, stating, "She made a tremendous error of judgment. She understands that and is working to become a better person."
Victim Impact
The victim's mother provided an impact statement read by the prosecutor. She described how her son's life was completely changed: "I watched my son become withdrawn and avoid people due to fear and attention. His normal life, education, routine, and sense of security were taken. This has left me with constant fear and anxiety." The mother withdrew her son from school and placed him in online education.
Prosecutor's Statement
Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald accused Sanroman of abusing her authority, calling it "the ultimate breach of trust placed in educators." She commended the teacher who reported the crime, protecting other students from further exploitation.
Due to her guilty plea, Sanroman will be placed on the Michigan Sex Offender Registry for life.
