Amit Netanel, a 61-year-old former educator from suburban Hamilton County, has entered a guilty plea in connection with the trading of child sexual abuse images through a messaging application. The Hamilton County Prosecutor's Office confirmed that Netanel pleaded guilty to three counts of pandering sexually oriented material involving a minor during a hearing at the Hamilton County Common Pleas Court.
Discovery and Investigation
Authorities became aware of Netanel's illicit online activities after receiving tips regarding his use of the Kik messenger app for sharing disturbing images. This led to a search warrant being executed at his residence in Symmes Township, where investigators uncovered evidence of his wrongdoing.
Background and Employment
Previously, Netanel served as a second-grade teacher at the Rockwern Academy, a Jewish educational institution located in Sycamore Township. According to spokesperson Karli Wood, he has not been associated with the school since June. Wood also noted that Netanel underwent a comprehensive background check prior to his hiring and continued to be subject to such checks every five years thereafter.
Legal Proceedings
Richard Goldberg, representing Netanel, stated that his client acknowledged possessing child sexual abuse material on his cellphone during the court proceedings. Goldberg emphasized that Netanel has maintained a law-abiding lifestyle throughout his career and has accepted responsibility for his actions.
As the legal process continues, prosecutor Matt Broo indicated that Netanel could face a maximum sentence of 28 years. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for October 29, where Judge Jennifer Branch will preside over the proceedings.
