A former Lake High School substitute teacher was sentenced to 60 days in jail and three years probation
on a charge of attempted menacing by stalking involving a then-17-year-old student.
Jacob Kubuske, 29, Millbury, appeared Thursday in the Courtroom of Judge Robert Pollex.
Kubuske pleaded guilty in February to the amended count, a fifth-degree felony, as part of a plea deal.
He was previously indicted on a single count of sexual battery, a third-degree felony.
The plea agreement was reached after discussions with the victim, as well as Kubuske’s attorney, Ted
Riley, according to prosecuting attorney Gwen Howe-Gebers.
Prior to sentencing, Riley said he had never been involved in a criminal case where a lapse in judgment
had so affected a defendant’s life.
"Jacob has really had his life turned upside-down" because of his actions, Riley said.
Relating to the amended charges, Kubuske and the victim reportedly had what was termed an
"interest" in one another between June 1 and June 30, 2011, while he was a substitute at the
school.
The victim later indicated she was no longer interested, but Kubuske reportedly twice attempted to have
further involvement with her, which she indicated was unwanted.
Noting that Kubuske "has paid a price" for his actions, including that he will never be able to
teach again, Riley asked for community control, as probation is now known.
"I do not believe he has any possibility of re-offending."
Howe-Gebers said the victim and her family wished to ensure that Kubuske never taught or coached again,
but that they would not be opposed to a work-release agreement if Kubuske found employment.
"Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would ever be in this position," said Kubuske prior
to sentencing. He apologized for his actions and said he could not find words for the "remorse and
sorrow for what I did."
Pollex, in pronouncing sentence, noted the reduction in the charges and sentenced Kubuske to 60 days in
the Wood County Justice Center, as well as three years of community control. As part of the community
control, he is to be evaluated for mental health counseling and sexual offender treatment. He must also
find employment and complete 150 hours of community service.
In addition to surrendering his teaching license, Kubuske is also prohibited from coaching, or holding
any position that places him in a role supervising young girls, said Pollex.