Ex-Helper Junior High teacher pleads guilty to sex with student

PRICE — A former Helper Junior High School teacher pleaded guilty Friday in 7th District Court to having a sexual relationship with a 15-year-old male student.

Melissa Ann Andreini, 28, was originally charged with three counts of unlawful sexual activity with a minor. Each charge is a third-degree felony punishable by up to five years in prison.

Andreini pleaded guilty to one count on Friday. The other two were dismissed. Sentencing is scheduled March 22 before Judge Douglas B. Thomas.

Andreini's victim said he was not her student, but told prosecutors he had sex with the teacher three times at her home near the school. Court documents say Andreini paid her victim $1,400 to $1,500 following the encounters, either as payment or to keep quiet.

Andreini resigned from her position at Helper Junior High School in August.

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