Beech Tree News Network

A 2022 case that began with charges of sexual abuse has reached its conclusion with a plea agreement.  

Steven McLean, a now-former teacher and coach in the Butler County School District, entered the plea on Tuesday, May 9, in Butler Circuit Court. 

According to court documents, McLean pleaded guilty to wanton endangerment, first degree.  Consequently, the court granted him a Pretrial Diversion for the Class D Felony.

The terms of the Pretrial Diversion include the following conditions:

--The period of Pretrial Diversion shall be five years.

--The diversion is to be supervised, and a monthly fee of $25 shall be paid to Probation & Parole.

--Probation & Parole shall conduct home visits.

--He shall not have access to a handgun or firearm during the five years.

--He shall obey all rules and regulations imposed by Probation & Parole.

--He shall not possess or consume any alcohol or illegal drugs and shall be subject to random testing.

--No contact with the victim.

--No unsupervised contact with minor children other than those who reside with him.  

--Resign from employment with the school system and not to be employed in the field of education.

--Enroll and complete parenting classes.

Originally, McLean was arrested by the Butler County Sheriff's Department and charged with Sexual Abuse, 1st degree, victim under 12 years of age.

As part of the original story posted on Beech Tree News last year, Butler County Schools' Superintendent Robert Tuck released the following statement:

"I understand Butler County High School teacher Steven McLean has been charged with first-degree sexual abuse. While there are no allegations of any misconduct by Mr. McLean as a teacher in the Butler County Schools, Mr. McLean is on a leave of absence as a precautionary matter pending further developments. I am monitoring the situation closely and will take all actions necessary to protect the safety of our students."