PITTSBURGH — The second former Plum high school teacher accused of having sex with a 17-year-old student pleaded guilty Monday afternoon.
Former Plum teacher Joseph Ruggieri will now spend two to five years in prison. In addition to his jail time, he will spend five years on probation and will be a registered sex offender for life. He will also be evaluated as a possibly sexually violent predator.
“He is a very intelligent person who could do a lot of good in society,” Ruggieri’s attorney said following the announcement.
Much like what happened with fellow ex-Plum teacher, Jason Cooper, Judge Davis Cashman considered rejecting the plea deal because he felt the sentence was too light.
Ultimately, he accepted it at the request of the victim and her family.
Ruggieri also pleaded guilty to witness intimidation.
“My client has accepted a significant jail sentence," said defense attorney Anthony DeLuca. "So he has accepted responsibility. I have met with him countless times and he is humbled by the situation.”
After getting charged, investigators said Ruggieri made numerous attempts to contact the victim and convince her not to testify.
The victim said this, in part of her impact statement in court Monday:
"The pain and punishment coming your way is well deserved…You ruined my life and turned me away from every single person I grew close to."
The victim added that he is dealing with depression and insomnia since the incident.
Judge Cashman said he opted not to testify and make the victim go through more pain.
The victim's family gave this statement following the plea:
Ruggieri did apologize in court. The victim's mother did address Ruggieri in court. She said she forgives him, not because he deserves it, but because it's the only way to heal and move forward.