Band Teacher Accused Of Sexual Assault Of Child Pleads Not Guilty

RACINE, WI — A former Wheatland J2 School District band teacher has pleaded not guilty to charges against him in Racine County Court, online court records show. He was accused of having sex with a minor, a report said citing a criminal complaint.

Zachary Wendt, 38, of Burlington, was charged in Racine County Court with multiple charges of possession of child pornography and sexual assault of a child by person who works or volunteers with children, online court records show.

The Wheatland District said to parents in a letter in December 2021—when Wendt was charged—that an employee was suspended without pay after they were arrested in connection with a situation that happened off of school property.

Journal Times reported Thursday that Wendt was let out of jail after a cash bail of $10,000. Conditions of release included having no contact with minors aside from his two kids.

Online court records show Wendt has been charged with:

• Sexual intercourse with child 16 or older, actor 19 or older.
• Sexual assault of child by person who works or volunteers with children.
• Sexual intercourse with child 16 or older, actor 19 or older.
• Sexual assault of child by person who works or volunteers with children.
• Possession of child pornography.
• Possession of child pornography.
• Possession of child pornography.
• Exposing genitals/pubic area/intimate parts to a child.