TOOELE — A former elementary school teacher whose actions were described as "despicable" was sentenced this morning to eight consecutive terms of up to 15 years in prison stemming from the molestation of eight of his students.

Christopher Burton, 26, was in 3rd District Court before Judge Mark Kouris, who said the former third-grade teacher had violated the great trust parents place in the hands of school teachers.

At an emotional hearing today, parents tearfully spoke of the Burton's betrayal and the aftermath of pain suffered by their children that has continued in the months following his arrest.

Many parents said their children have been incessantly teased and ridiculed at school, being called things such as "Mr. Burton's lap puppy" and "gay."

Several parents said their children wonder if they themselves are gay, adding they are concerned if their children will ever be able to live a normal life.

Burton was accused of fondling eight students in his East Elementary School classroom on various occasions between Aug. 21, 2006 and March 30, 2007.

The abuse came to light when students came forward saying that Burton had told them to sit on his lap during class while the other children were distracted by activities in classroom.

Burton would then put his hands in their pants' pockets and fondle them.

He initially was charged with eight counts of first-degree felony aggravated sexual abuse of child but pleaded guilty last August to reduced charges of second-degree felony sexual abuse of a child.

Burton is expected to serve a mandatory eight years up to 30 years in prison due to a statutory cap placed on second and third -degree felonies.

However, the stacking of each count may have an impact on Burton's chances for parole. Kouris also indicated that he intends send a letter to the Board of Pardons and Parole personally requesting that Burton serve all 30 years behind bars.

Burton himself offered an apology to the parents and said he was sorry for being a sex offender and that he was "once a great teacher," with a gift of making children learn.

---

E-mail: gfattah@desnews.com