Former Hamilton County teacher charged with sex abuse crimes against multiple students stands trial | Chattanooga Times Free Press

Duane Sanders, a former first-grade teacher at Wallace A. Smith Elementary School, stands trial in Hamilton County for 15 criminal charges, including aggravated rape of a child. Allegations surfaced in March 2023, claiming he systematically sexually assaulted young boys in his classroom. Prosecutor Stephani Brown detailed how Sanders allegedly normalized inappropriate behavior, such as having boys sit on his lap and touching their genitals while others were distracted. Principal Kelley Weiss testified that the accusations came to light after a student reported them, leading to Sanders being placed on leave.

Recognized as an HCS Hero in 2021, Sanders' defense attorney contends that the state must prove his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, citing inconsistencies in the victims' testimonies. If convicted of aggravated rape of a child under 8, Sanders faces a potential life sentence without parole. The trial is expected to last up to two weeks.