DARLINGTON — The former 23-year-old gym teacher accused of sexual assault and an inappropriate relationship involving a 17-year-old student has pleaded not guilty to the crimes in Lafayette County Circuit Court.

According to court records, Jesse D. Sturtz, 23 of Darlington, is charged in a criminal complaint with four counts of sexual assault by school staff, a class H felony in Wisconsin punishable by up to six years in prison and a maximum fine of $10,000. 

The not guilty plea on all counts was entered by Sturtz’ attorney Robert S. Duxstad on Tuesday, while court records indicate that the defendant stood mute during the proceeding.

Sturtz, a Darlington High School gym teacher, allegedly met the 17-year-old victim in a class he was teaching around last September. The Monroe Times does not identify underage victims or any reported victims of sexual assault. 

His next appearance is scheduled to appear in court again on May 10 before Circuit Judge M. Jorgenson.