A former high school teacher from Maryland is beginning a lengthy prison sentence after being convicted of sexually assaulting two teenage students in a case that has shocked the local community and raised serious questions about student safeguarding.
Kyle Evan Levengood, a 29-year-old former teacher at Westlake High School, was sentenced to 26 years behind bars after pleading guilty to multiple counts of sexual abuse of a minor. The sentence will be followed by five years of supervised probation.
The disturbing details emerged in Charles County Circuit Court, where prosecutors outlined how Levengood exploited his position of trust to prey on vulnerable teenagers. The abuse occurred both on school premises and at another location, with one assault taking place within a classroom.
Pattern of Predatory Behaviour
Court documents reveal a pattern of calculated grooming and abuse. Levengood engaged in inappropriate communications with the victims before progressing to sexual assaults between February and April 2023.
Charles County State's Attorney Tony Covington stated: "This individual betrayed the trust placed in him as an educator in the most horrific way imaginable. His actions have caused lasting trauma to these young victims and their families."
School District Response
The Charles County Public School District moved quickly to terminate Levengood's employment upon learning of the allegations in April 2023. District officials have emphasised their commitment to student safety and cooperation with law enforcement throughout the investigation.
In a statement, school officials confirmed: "We immediately removed this individual from contact with students and have reviewed our safeguarding protocols to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future."
Community Impact and Ongoing Concerns
The case has sent shockwaves through the community, prompting discussions about the vetting processes for educational staff and the mechanisms for students to report abuse. Child protection advocates have called for enhanced safeguarding training and more robust reporting systems within schools.
This sentencing serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of young people in educational settings and the critical importance of vigilant child protection measures.
