Pennsylvania music teacher convicted of sexually abusing a student

HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania (WTAJ) – A former high school band director in Luzerne County was convicted in 2019 of sexually abusing a student.

A jury convicted 41-year-old Theron Roberts on Thursday afternoon of institutional sexual abuse and seduction of minors, as well as two counts of indecent assault.

According to testimony, Roberts was a band director at Crestwood High School in Mountain Top. The victim first met Roberts in seventh grade and said Roberts made sexual advances toward the student over the years.

According to testimony, Roberts touched the victim’s thigh during one-on-one instruction, made comments about the victim’s romantic relationship with another student, and touched intimate parts of the victim’s uniform. When the victim was in 10th grade, Roberts dragged the victim to a secluded area, groped her, and threatened the victim not to tell anyone about the assault.

“This defendant abused his position of power and invested time in courting the student and gaining her trust before attacking her,” said Attorney General Henry. “I applaud the jury’s attention to this serious matter and admire the victim’s courage in coming to court and confronting her abuser to ensure that justice is served.”

Sentencing for Roberts is scheduled for September 27.