Ex-counselor pleads guilty to 3 sex counts

A former West High School counselor pleaded guilty Wednesday to three second-degree felony counts of forcible sexual abuse in exchange for the dismissal of seven other related felony charges.

Marco Rutlelco Herrera, 52, is accused of having a sexual relationship with a 14-year-old female student for whom he was a counselor. Testimony at a preliminary hearing in September suggests the relationship was consensual though statutorily illegal under Utah law.

Herrera remains in the Salt Lake County Jail in lieu of $250,000 bail, an amount the judge conducting the September hearing refused to lower because he was concerned Herrera and the victim would have further contact.

Third District Judge Vernice Trease scheduled sentencing for June 18.