Local Keystone Schools teacher and coach pleads not guilty to sexual assault

ELYRIA, Ohio (WOIO) — The attorney for a local Keystone Schools coach and substitute teacher appeared in Lorain County Common Pleas Court on his behalf Thursday morning.

Antonio Blanton is charged with two counts of sexual assault for allegedly assaulting a student at local Keystone Schools.

Attorney Kenneth Liuex found not guilty on both counts.

Blanton, 23, was arrested by Elyria police in February.

School officials said that in addition to being a substitute teacher, Blanton coached the JV boys’ basketball coach.

Blanton remains on bail and will be back in court on May 6.

Keystone Local Schools Superintendent Dan White issued the following statement following Blanton’s arrest in February:

“Last week, allegations of misconduct by Antonio Blanton were brought before the administration of Keystone High School. The administration immediately removed Mr. Blanton from service and contacted Child Protective Services and the local police Mr. Blanton has not returned to Keystone and the school district is taking steps to permanently remove him Keystone remains committed to providing a safe learning environment for all of its students School counselors and other measures to support are available to help any Keystone students who need help.

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