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Indiana Teen Tony Baxter Charged With Molesting 12-Year-Old at School

Indiana High School Student Tony Baxter Has Been Charged With Child Molestation
Pioneer Junior Senior High School (http://www.pioneer.k12.in.us/)

ROYAL CENTER, Ind. (CBS) A northern Indiana high school student is charged with child molestation for allegedly having sex with a 12-year-old girl in a school bathroom.

The Pioneer High School student, 18-year-old Tony Baxter, is also accused of attempted child molestation and conspiracy to commit child molestation, for planning to see the girl again, reports WFLI.

Cass County Prosecutor Kevin Enyeart said the teenager could spend 6 to 20 years in jail if he is convicted, and would also be required to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life.

When asked if he knew what this could do to his future, Baxter responded, "Yes, I do."

Pioneer High School Principal Bob Brock says he is shocked and appalled at the incident, and has been doing his very best to minimize the emotional damage by counseling students who may have questions.

"Shock is probably not even the right word," he told WFLI. "It is almost unbelievable. It is almost like a bad dream.

Brock also plans to educate students in order to prevent similar situations in the future, reports WFLI.

"Everyone is hurting right now, but this will pass and we will be stronger for it," said Brock.

According to the prosecutor, Enyeart, a 17-year-old whose name is being withheld is also being charged with attempted child molestation and conspiracy to commit child molestation for the same incident. He is due in court Jan. 19, 2011.

Tony Baxter is due back in court in December for a pre-trial hearing.



WFLI.


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