AKRON, Ohio -- A former cheerleading coach who had sexual contact with a 17-year-old boy she was coaching was sentenced to prison lasy Tuesday.
Mishelle Robinson, 29, of Newton Falls, was sentenced to four years in prison. She was also labeled as a sexually-oriented offender.
She pleaded guilty earlier this month to four counts of sexual battery and two counts of contributing to the delinquency of a minor.
Prosecutors said Robinson, who was an instructor at the NEO Cheerleading and Dance studio in Coventry Township, had sexual contact with the teenager from May to August 2005.
The victim's mother spoke out in court Tuesday, saying she was shocked to learn about the relationship and that what Robinson had done to the boy was sick.
"My opinion is that you should never again be in a position of authority with any children," the mother said.
She said her son, who had tried other sports and had some difficulties with learning, gained a great deal of self-confidence due to the influence and coaching of Robinson.
Now the boy has to undergo counseling, she said.
Robinson released a statement that she was intoxicated whenever the incidents occurred, and they occurred during a period when her life was in a "downward spiral" due to personal problems.
Prosecutors said Robinson was a friend of the boy's mother.
Robinson was suspended from her coaching job immediately after being questioned by authorities.
