Former South County Teacher Sentenced to Prison for Crimes against a Minor

Today in Department 17 of the Tulare County Superior Court, South County Justice Center, the court sentenced James Van Norton, age 46, to 13 years, 8 months in prison for child molestation.

“I am certain that the public views this sentence as wildly inadequate based on the defendant’s actions and position of trust. As a career prosecutor and father, I could easily argue the punishment does not meet the depravity of the crime,” said Tulare County District Attorney Tim Ward. “This case was sentenced in accordance with the current law of California, which states the maximum punishment could be 14 years, 8 months. While my prosecutor argued for more time in prison, we recognize the constraints placed upon the court by the state of California.”

On September 26, 2024, 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.

In addition to his sentence, Van Norton must register as a sex offender for life.

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