Former Hamilton County Teacher Sentenced for Abuse
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – A former Hamilton County teacher, Duane Sanders, was sentenced today for multiple counts of sexual abuse of children following a lengthy investigation.
Sanders was found guilty of continuous sexual abuse of a child, involving several young victims.
Investigators identified approximately 12 children who disclosed abuse, and forensic interviews were conducted with roughly 23 children, though only seven testified in court.
Several victims chose not to disclose details, while others made clear indications of sexual abuse.
The case revealed that Sanders possessed roughly 60 explicit images of children, including both boys and girls, and that he displayed sexual interest in children similar in age and gender to his victims.
Psychological testing, including an eye-tracking assessment, indicated Sanders had a high sexual fixation on children and viewed them as partners or equals, showing no recognition that children cannot legally consent.
He also projected blame onto his victims.
Before sentencing, the court ordered a psychosexual evaluation, which assessed Sanders’ risk level, behavior patterns, and likelihood of reoffending.
Judge Barry Steelman considered the evaluation along with testimony from victims and impact statements from parents and the Principal of Wallace A Smith Elementary when determining the sentence.
Anonymous parents described Sanders as a predator who controlled and manipulated his victims, with one noting the lasting emotional impact on her child.
A principal explained that some students continue to struggle with trust and anxiety, emphasizing that supporting them remains an ongoing responsibility.
Judge Barry Steelman sentenced Sanders to 60 years in prison without the chance of parole for continuous sexual abuse of a child.
The sentence carries no parole eligibility under Tennessee law and requires lifetime sex offender registration.
The court also included lifetime community supervision upon release, though officials noted the sentence’s length makes that supervision unlikely.
Sanders declined to review evidence during the proceedings.
The case involved multiple victims and forensic interviews, highlighting both the scope of Sanders’ offenses and the impact on victims and the community.
