Hopkins, 26, of Springboro, was convicted in March.
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Families gave victim statements Wednesday ahead of the sentencing.
Clear barriers could be seen between the prosecution and defense due to the coronavirus pandemic. The court also has limited seating to prevent the spread of the virus.
One of the people in the court room was wearing a “Justice for 88” shirt. There were 88 girls seen on video that had physical interaction with Hopkins. Charges filed against him involved 28 students.
Judge Robert Peeler this week denied a motion for a new trial.
We will provide live updates during the sentencing.
Prosecutors have called for a significant prison term, while Hopkins’ lawyers want the judge to approve treatment and counseling.
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A first-grade girl told her parents how happy she was to finally get a chance to sit on Hopkins’ lap, and that sparked the investigation, which lasted months.
Hours of school surveillance video helped lead to charges that Hopkins touched 28 girls during gym class at Clearcreek Elementary School from December 2018 to March 2019.
Ahead of sentencing, Peeler said it was a difficult and emotional case, and he cautioned against any courtroom outbursts, which followed his conviction.
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