In a recent case that has garnered significant attention, a teacher from O’Donnell ISD has been convicted for the enticement of a minor student and sentenced to 240 months in federal prison. Nicholas Dominique Bueno, 28, was found guilty following a bench trial and was also ordered to 25 years of supervised release and a $5,000 assessment to the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act. The charges stemmed from an inappropriate relationship between Mr. Bueno, who was a teacher and coach at O’Donnell High School, and a 14-year-old student referred to as “Jane Doe.” During the investigation, it was discovered that Bueno and Jane Doe had exchanged thousands of messages, many of which were of a sexual nature. This case serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and proper protocols within educational institutions to safeguard the well-being of students.
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Conviction and Sentencing
Teacher convicted for enticement of minor student
Sentenced to 240 months in federal prison
Additional penalties and supervised release
In a recent case of teacher misconduct, Nicholas Dominique Bueno, a teacher and coach at O’Donnell High School, has been convicted for enticement and attempted enticement of a minor. After a bench trial in June 2023, Bueno was found guilty of one count of enticement and attempted enticement of a minor. In addition, he pleaded guilty to three counts of transfer of obscene material to a minor. As a result, he has been sentenced to 240 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge James Wesley Hendrix.
The extensive nature of the offense is reflected in the thousands of messages that were exchanged between Bueno and the minor student, referred to as Jane Doe, during the period of September 23, 2022, to October 18, 2022. These messages were found to be controlling, grooming, sexual, and enticing in nature. Initially, Bueno denied any communication with Jane Doe outside of school, but later admitted to using a second phone for communication and destroying it after the relationship was discovered.
The investigation into Bueno’s actions involved multiple agencies, including the Lynn County Sheriff’s Office, FBI, Department of Public Safety, and Lubbock Police Department. The cooperation and assistance of O’Donnell Independent School District were crucial in this process.
With his conviction and sentencing, Bueno now faces additional penalties and supervised release. U.S. District Judge James Wesley Hendrix ordered Bueno to 25 years of supervised release following imprisonment and imposed a $5,000 assessment to be paid under the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act. These measures aim to ensure that victims are protected and supported in their recovery.
Background and Investigations
Nicholas Dominique Bueno: Teacher and coach at O’Donnell High School
Allegations and notification to Lynn County Sheriff’s Office
Exchange of thousands of messages between Bueno and Jane Doe
Nature of messages: controlling, grooming, sexual, and enticing
Initial denial and subsequent admission by Bueno
Investigating agencies: Lynn County Sheriff’s Office, FBI, Department of Public Safety, Lubbock Police Department
Support and assistance from O’Donnell Independent School District
Nicholas Dominique Bueno was employed as a teacher and coach at O’Donnell High School when allegations of misconduct involving a minor student, referred to as Jane Doe, were brought to the attention of the Lynn County Sheriff’s Office. The allegations raised concerns about an inappropriate relationship between Bueno and Jane Doe.
During the investigation, it was discovered that Bueno and Jane Doe had exchanged thousands of messages between September 23, 2022, and October 18, 2022. These messages were found to be of a controlling, grooming, sexual, and enticing nature, highlighting the alarming nature of Bueno’s actions.
Initially, when confronted, Bueno denied any communication with Jane Doe outside of school. However, as the investigation progressed, Bueno admitted to using a second phone to communicate with Jane Doe and later destroying it once the relationship was discovered. This admission shed light on the extent of Bueno’s involvement and confirmed the allegations against him.
The investigation involved multiple agencies, including the Lynn County Sheriff’s Office, FBI, Department of Public Safety, and Lubbock Police Department. Their collaborative efforts were integral in gathering evidence and building a strong case against Bueno. Additionally, the O’Donnell Independent School District provided vital support and assistance throughout the entirety of the investigation.
Court Proceedings
Bench trial in June 2023
Conviction on one count of enticement and attempted enticement of a minor
Guilty plea on three counts of transfer of obscene material to a minor
Sentencing by U.S. District Judge James Wesley Hendrix
Supervised release and assessment under the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act
Prosecution by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Callie Woolam and Matt McLeod
Following the investigation, Nicholas Dominique Bueno faced a bench trial in June 2023. Subsequently, he was convicted on one count of enticement and attempted enticement of a minor. In addition, Bueno pleaded guilty to three counts of transfer of obscene material to a minor.
For his crimes, Bueno was sentenced by U.S. District Judge James Wesley Hendrix. The sentence consisted of 240 months in federal prison. Furthermore, Bueno will be subject to 25 years of supervised release following his imprisonment. This ensures that his activities are closely monitored and that he is held accountable for any further attempts to exploit or harm vulnerable individuals.
Additionally, as part of his sentencing, Bueno was ordered to pay a $5,000 assessment under the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act. This financial contribution will go towards supporting initiatives aimed at assisting victims of trafficking and preventing future incidents.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Callie Woolam and Matt McLeod, who presented a compelling case with strong evidence and arguments. Their dedication and expertise played a crucial role in securing Bueno’s conviction and ensuring a fair and just outcome.
Impact on the Victim and Community
Jane Doe: 14 year-old student
Alleged inappropriate relationship between Bueno and Jane Doe
Messages exchanged between September 23, 2022, and October 18, 2022
Emotional and psychological impact on the victim
Community response and support for the victim
The victim in this case, known as Jane Doe, was a 14-year-old student at O’Donnell High School. As a minor, Jane Doe was vulnerable and placed her trust in her teacher, Bueno. The alleged inappropriate relationship between Bueno and Jane Doe had a profound impact on the victim.
Through the exchange of thousands of messages between September 23, 2022, and October 18, 2022, the true nature of Bueno’s actions towards Jane Doe became apparent. The messages were marked by a pattern of control, grooming, sexual content, and enticement. These interactions had a lasting emotional and psychological impact on Jane Doe, causing distress and trauma.
The community responded to these troubling allegations with shock and disappointment. The exploitation of a vulnerable minor by a trusted authority figure is a deeply disturbing betrayal. However, the community also rallied around Jane Doe, showing immense support and empathy towards her. It is essential that the victim receives the necessary resources and assistance to help with her recovery and healing process.
Collaboration and Investigation
Lynn County Sheriff’s Office
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
Department of Public Safety
Lubbock Police Department
Assistance from O’Donnell Independent School District
A case of this magnitude requires the collaboration of multiple agencies to ensure a thorough and comprehensive investigation. The Lynn County Sheriff’s Office, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Department of Public Safety, and Lubbock Police Department worked together to uncover the truth and hold Bueno accountable for his actions.
The Lynn County Sheriff’s Office played a crucial role in initiating the investigation after receiving notification from a school administrator at O’Donnell High School regarding the allegations against Bueno. Their prompt action allowed for the timely gathering of evidence and ensuring the safety of the victim.
The FBI, Department of Public Safety, and Lubbock Police Department provided valuable resources and expertise in conducting a thorough investigation. Their collaboration was instrumental in collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, and building a strong case against Bueno.
Throughout the investigative process, the O’Donnell Independent School District provided unwavering support and assistance. Their cooperation and commitment to ensure the safety and well-being of their students were crucial elements in the successful resolution of this case.
Prosecution and Legal Proceedings
Case prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Callie Woolam and Matt McLeod
Presentation of evidence and arguments during trial
Conviction and guilty plea
Sentencing by U.S. District Judge James Wesley Hendrix
The prosecution of Nicholas Dominique Bueno was led by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Callie Woolam and Matt McLeod. Their expertise in handling cases related to exploitation and abuse played a vital role in securing his conviction.
During the trial, the prosecution presented a compelling case, supported by a wealth of evidence. The exchange of thousands of messages between Bueno and Jane Doe served as a clear testament to the nature of their relationship. The messages, which exhibited control, grooming, sexual content, and enticement, left little room for doubt regarding Bueno’s intentions.
As a result of the evidence presented and the guilty plea entered by Bueno, he was convicted of one count of enticement and attempted enticement of a minor. The seriousness of his actions was further emphasized by his guilty plea on three counts of transfer of obscene material to a minor.
U.S. District Judge James Wesley Hendrix presided over the case and ultimately delivered the sentencing. His decision to impose a 240-month prison term reflects the gravity of Bueno’s offenses and serves as a deterrent to others who may consider engaging in similar misconduct.
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Support and Resources for Victim
Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act
Supervised release and assessment
Resources provided for counseling and support
Collaboration with victim advocacy organizations
In recognition of the victim’s trauma and need for support, various resources and assistance have been made available to Jane Doe. The Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act plays a significant role in ensuring that victims receive the necessary care and support.
As part of the sentencing, Nicholas Dominique Bueno was ordered to pay a $5,000 assessment under the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act. This financial contribution will contribute to programs and services aimed at assisting trafficking victims in their recovery and rebuilding their lives.
Furthermore, supervised release following imprisonment ensures that Bueno will remain under close supervision and assessment to prevent any potential re-offending. This measure prioritizes the safety and well-being of the victim and the community.
To support Jane Doe’s healing process, resources for counseling and support have been made available. Collaborating with victim advocacy organizations, the aim is to provide a comprehensive support system that addresses the emotional and psychological impact of the victim’s traumatic experience.
Conclusion and Future Implications
Impact of the conviction and sentencing on Bueno’s teaching career
Lessons learned and importance of preventing similar incidents
Continued support for the victim and ongoing community healing
Measures taken to ensure the safety of students in educational institutions
The conviction and sentencing of Nicholas Dominique Bueno have profound implications for his teaching career. The severity of his offenses and the legal consequences he faces will likely result in the termination of his employment. This serves as an important reminder that individuals in positions of trust must uphold the highest standards of conduct and prioritize the well-being of their students.
This case highlights the critical importance of preventing and addressing incidents of teacher misconduct in educational institutions. Lessons must be learned from such cases to ensure that robust policies and procedures are in place to protect students from exploitation and abuse. It is crucial that educational institutions promptly address any allegations of misconduct and provide a safe and supportive environment for their students.
Moving forward, ongoing support for the victim and the community is imperative. Collaborative efforts between authorities, victim advocacy organizations, and the community are pivotal in facilitating healing and recovery. By actively engaging in the recovery process, the community can work towards prevention and create an environment where students feel safe and protected.
Efforts to ensure the safety of students in educational institutions need to be continually reinforced. This case offers valuable insights into the vulnerabilities that exist within educational environments and the urgent need for comprehensive measures to prevent and address incidents of misconduct. By prioritizing the safety and well-being of students, educational institutions can create an environment conducive to learning and personal growth.
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