(KRON) -- An equestrian coach who worked throughout San Mateo County pleaded no contest to child molestation and attempted possession of child pornography, according to the San Mateo County District Attorney’s Office.
Alec Lawler, 34, of Atherton, was convicted of two counts of felony attempted possession of child pornography and two counts of misdemeanor child molesting. Lawler also admitted to aggravating factor allegations.
The no contest plea was conditioned on receiving up to one year in county jail. Seven counts of distributing or showing pornography to a minor and two counts of contact with a minor for a sexual offense were dismissed with the plea.
Prosecutors said that in 2022, Lawler sent videos of himself masturbating to a 15-year-old girl who was one of his equestrian students. He also requested sexual photographs from the child, according to the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office.
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When the victim “asked (Lawler) to keep the relationship professional,” the DA’s office said Lawler “responded angrily.” The victim reported the crimes once Lawler moved away.
Lawler was taken into custody in Southern California on Jan. 5, 2023. At the time of his arrest, the sheriff’s office said there may be additional victims due to his position as a coach working with minors.
Sentencing is scheduled for Dec. 21. Lawler remains out of custody on a $2.5 million bail bond on the condition of wearing an ankle monitor, the DA’s office said.
