Trial Begins for Former Gilman School Teacher

The trial of former Gilman School teacher Christopher Bendann commenced with jury selection and opening statements, after he was compelled to appear in court by U.S. Marshals. Bendann faces nine charges, including sexual exploitation of a minor, possession of child pornography, and cyberstalking, related to alleged inappropriate conduct with a then-15-year-old student. Prosecutors claim he used his position of trust to groom and abuse the victim, recording explicit interactions and later using the footage for cyberstalking. The victim, now in his twenties, testified about feeling coerced into compliance due to fear. Bendann has pleaded not guilty, asserting that the evidence is fabricated and indicating his intent to testify in his defense. The judge has warned jurors to expect explicit evidence, underscoring the serious nature of the allegations against Bendann, who had previously been counseled about maintaining appropriate boundaries with students.