A former St. Vincent-St. Mary High School wrestling coach and Olympian pleaded guilty Thursday to gross sexual imposition related to his sexual contact with a female graduate of the school.
Justin “Harry” Lester, who was originally charged with sexual battery, accepted a plea agreement rather than taking his case to trial in Summit County Common Pleas Court.
Judge Joy Malek Oldfield immediately sentenced Lester to three years of probation, the penalty agreed to by the attorneys.
The victim who accused Lester, who is now 20 and was older than 18 at the time of the sexual contact, spoke during the sentencing, accusing Lester of grooming and taking advantage of her.
“I forgive you — not for your benefit — but for my ability to move forward and live freely,” she told Lester.
Lester pleaded guilty to a reduced charge of gross sexual imposition, a fourth-degree felony. Prosecutors dismissed the other charges against him.
Munyer said he advised Lester to refrain from speaking because of the pending civil suit.
Oldfield told Lester will be required to abide by the terms of his probation; if he does not, he will face penalties that could include up to 18 months in prison. She also designated him a Tier 1 sex offender, which means he will be required to register his address annually for the next 15 years.
After the sentencing, Munyer said Lester is prohibited from working in schools or coaching.
“We appreciate the court accepting the recommendation of the parties,” Munyer said.
“Cases like this rarely end with everyone happy with the outcome. Mr. Lester is looking forward to moving on with his life.”
