Former coach-teacher admits guilt and sentenced

A 40-year old Kershaw man who committed sex offenses against two of his students in both Oconee and Lancaster counties admitted his guilt this afternoon in Walhalla and was sent to prison for 20 years—the exact term of sentence requested by the prosecutor. It was an emotional proceeding for the victims of Richard Gardner III, who broke down as one of them described to the judge how Gardner betrayed his trust and abused him, the effects of which he still feels today. Gardner pleaded guilty to multiple charges of criminal sexual conduct with minors, lewd acts upon the minors, and, in instance, a charge of disseminating obscene materials to a minor. Further details on 96.3/WGOG NEWS at 5 today and tomorrow morning.