Former Teacher Gets Probation For Taking 'Upskirt' Photos Of Student's Underwear

ST. JOSEPH, Mich. (WWJ/AP) - A former southwestern Michigan middle school teacher accused of taking "upskirt" photos of a student has avoided jail time in the case.

Aaron Badger, 37, was sentenced Monday to five years probation after earlier pleading guilty to surveilling an unclothed person or in their underwear, a felony offense that carries a penalty of up to two years in prison. Other felony charges were dropped as part of a plea agreement.

Berrien County Trial Court Judge Arthur Cotter told Badger that his behavior was "stunning" and an inexcusable violation of trust during a sentencing hearing Monday.

Badger apologized to his former students and the community, adding that he voluntarily gave up his teaching position, The Herald-Palladium reported.

"I do deeply regret what's happened," he said.

Badger, who taught social studies at New Buffalo Middle School, was charged last year after a female student complained that he used a cellphone to take photos under her skirt.

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