Arizona Teacher Sentenced 187 Years for Abusing Students

Cory Kapahulehua, 44, a former teacher at the Arizona Agribusiness and Equine Center’s Mesa campus, was sentenced in October to 187 years in prison after a jury convicted him on 17 felony counts including multiple counts of sexual conduct with a minor, sexual abuse, child molestation, attempted sexual conduct and aggravated assault. Prosecutors said Kapahulehua began sexual relationships in August 2021 with two female students then aged 14 and 17 and used his position to groom and exploit them, Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell said. The younger victim reported sexual encounters on school grounds until Kapahulehua was fired in January 2022 and later alleged sex at a hotel and a nearby parking garage. The older victim testified to repeated sexual encounters at his apartment while underage, and authorities say Kapahulehua organized an online fundraiser to help her move out; the pair moved in together after she turned 18. The Maricopa County Attorney’s Office announced the convictions, consecutive sentences and said the victims’ testimonies led to his arrest in 2023.