A teacher is likely to be imprisoned for engaging in sexual intercourse with a 17-year-old student at a school while she was meant to be teaching, a court has been told. Monique Kieuoanh Nguyen, aged 30, appeared at Parramatta District Court on Thursday, wearing a face mask and keeping her head bowed as she hurried in and out of the proceedings.
Guilty Pleas and Serious Charges
Nguyen pleaded guilty to sexual intercourse with a person between 17 and 18 years old under care, as well as using a carriage service to solicit child abuse material. Crown prosecutor Sarah Beaumont informed the court that the teacher was supposed to be instructing the student when the sexual encounter occurred at a New South Wales school.
Prosecution's Argument for Custody
Ms Beaumont strongly advocated for Nguyen to be taken into custody, stressing that students and parents have a right to expect that trusted educators will not exploit their positions. 'The offender exploited a special relationship,' she stated, adding that a sentence of imprisonment was the only appropriate response for the offences and the severe breach of trust involved.
Defence's Plea for Bail
However, Nguyen's lawyer argued that the 30-year-old requires bail to attend mental health appointments, which would be negatively affected by time in custody. The court heard that she has engaged in meaningful mental health treatment programs and made significant progress since being charged.
Judge's Decision on Detention
Judge Anthony Colefax acknowledged that Nguyen's progress would be halted if she were detained while awaiting sentencing. He declined to grant the detention application, noting it was likely but not certain that she would receive a full-time jail term. When the application was denied, Nguyen, who had wiped away tears throughout, cried and embraced her family.
Additional Charges and Sentencing
Nguyen also admitted to nine counts of sexually touching a person between 17 and 18 years old under special care, which will be considered during her sentencing. She is scheduled to be sentenced on May 29, with the court emphasizing the gravity of her actions.
The case highlights ongoing concerns about educator misconduct and the protection of minors in educational settings. Support services such as Lifeline and Kids Helpline are available for those affected by similar issues.
