A former Wicomico County teacher and school guidance counselor has pleaded guilty to multiple offenses concerning his improper interaction with school students.

Allen E. Mitchell, 33, of Salisbury, pleaded guilty Oct. 9 to sexual abuse of a minor, manufacturing of child pornography, contributing to the condition of a minor and telephone misuse in an obscene matter.

Prosecutors in the Wicomico State’s Attorney’s Office said Mitchell engaged in inappropriate conduct with two minor victims and further engaged in sexual acts with a third minor victim.   

Mitchell pleaded guilty to four charges, but had been facing a total of 30.

Arrested in January, Mitchell now faces up to 41 years in prison and will be required to register for life as a Tier III Sexual Offender.

Circuit Court Judge Jimmy Sarbanes ordered that a mandatory pre-sentence investigation along with a mental health evaluation be completed prior to the sentencing hearing. At sentencing, prosecutors will seek a significant a significant period of incarceration within the Division of Correction.

Schools Superintendent Dr. Donna C. Hanlin issued a statement following the guilty plea:

“We hope today’s plea helps with the healing process for the minors involved and their families. The safety of our students is our highest priority.”

Hanlin also urged students and parents to immediately share any suspicions of child abuse with to trusted adults in school, at home or in the community.

State’s Attorney Jamie Dykes commended lead investigator, Detective K. Oppel of the Salisbury Police Department and other members of the Wicomico County Child Advocacy Center for their commitment and work in the investigation and prosecution of this case.