Former South County Teacher Found Guilty of Child Molestation

Today in Department 17 of the Tulare County Superior Court, South County Justice Center, TCDA sex crimes prosecutors secured a guilty verdict against James Van Norton, age 45, for child molestation.

Van Norton was convicted by a jury of 3 felony counts of unlawful sexual intercourse and 13 felony counts of lewd act upon a child aged 14. Each count is enhanced with the special allegation that Van Norton was in a position of trust. The crimes took place from August 2018 to March 2019 in Tulare County against a single minor victim. At the time of the crimes, Van Norton was employed as a teacher at the Porterville Military Academy.

Sentencing is scheduled for December 6, 2024. According to California sentencing laws, the victim’s age, and other factors related to the criminal conduct, Van Norton faces up 14 years, 8 months in state prison. In addition, Van Norton must register as a sex offender for life. The Office of the District Attorney does not possess the ability to request additional punishment.

The case was prosecuted by Supervising Deputy District Attorney Kelly Habroun and was investigated by the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office.

Media inquiries can be directed to the Office of the District Attorney, County of Tulare Chief Deputy District Attorney Jessica Weatherly (559) 636-5494