Teacher’s Molestation Hearing Postponed

It will be at least two more weeks before a judge can decide whether there is enough evidence for a Santa Ana teacher, charged with molesting some of his students, to stand trial.

A preliminary hearing for Jerome Thompson Wilhoit, expected to conclude Tuesday, was delayed until Aug. 14 because a new witness has come forward and has to be interviewed by the prosecutor and defense attorney.

Two Santa Ana police officers testified last week that Wilhoit engaged in such activities as whisking a girl off of her feet and blowing on her stomach and kissing another girl on the mouth. According to police, another girl said Wilhoit had touched her inappropriately.

Wilhoit, 36, has pleaded not guilty to five felony counts involving three children. He agreed to the delay and left the courthouse without comment. He remains free on bail.