Former teacher pleads not guilty to sexually explicit conduct, abuse charges

Jeremy Vlasin, 40, of Imperial pled not guilty Nov. 15 in Chase County District Court to four charges relating depiction of sexually explicit conduct, child abuse and sexual abuse by a school employee.
Vlasin, who was an ag teacher and FFA advisor employed by Chase County Schools, is charged with four felony counts dating back to 2014.
The first charge of visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct involves alleged conduct dating back to January, 2014. This is a Class ID felony which is punishable by 3-50 years imprisonment and requirement to register as a sex offender.
Counts Two and Three are for intentionally committing child abuse that does not result in bodily injury. These relate to alleged incidents that occurred in August 2017.
These are both Class IIIA felonies, punishable from 0-3 years imprisonment and sexual offender registration.
Count Four charges Vlasin with sexual abuse by a school employee in the third degree, also known as a form of “grooming.” This alleged incident occurred Nov. 14, 2020.
This is a Class IV felony punishable by probation, 0-2 years imprisonment, and sexual offender registration.
Vlasin is being represented by attorney Bob Lindemeier of North Platte.
Lindemeier indicated to District Judge Patrick Heng there is a significant amount of discovery involved and depositions to be taken. As a result, Vlasin waived his right to a speedy trial.
The next status hearing on the case is set for March 5, 9 a.m. MT.
The state is being represented by Demetria Herman, a special deputy attorney for Chase County appointed by the Attorney General’s Office.