Teacher accused of sex with teen is in court

1/12/2006

A Scott High School teacher accused of having a sexual relationship with a student appeared yesterday in Lucas County Common Pleas Court for a bond hearing.

John Mitch Balonek, 48, was released on his own recognizance and ordered by Judge James Jensen not to have any contact with the girl, 16.

Mr. Balonek was indicted Tuesday by a county grand jury on one count of sexual battery. He surrendered to authorities yesterday. He is scheduled to be arraigned Wednesday before Judge Denise Ann Dartt.

Sylvania Township police found the student and Mr. Balonek in a car about 7:30 p.m. Saturday behind Meijer, 7240 West Central Ave. Mr. Balonek of 2631 Sherbrooke Rd. was suspended without pay Tuesday by Toledo Public Schools.