A former Omaha middle school teacher accused of molesting students faces trial Monday.
Shad Knutson’s trial had been set to begin Wednesday, but was pushed back following a dispute over witnesses.
Prosecutors say the 36-year-old Knutson molested or had inappropriate relationships with five girls ages 13 to 15 from 2008 through 2010 while a social studies teacher at Nathan Hale Magnet Middle School. He’s charged with seven felony counts, including sexual assault of a child.
Deputy Douglas County Attorney Brenda Beadle says the trial could take two weeks.
Prosecutors had considered bringing charges against Omaha Public Schools officials for not reporting students’ complaints about Knutson to police, but opted not to after the district made changes to its child abuse reporting policy.