OSWEGO, Ill. (STMW) – A popular former Oswego High School teacher was sentenced to five years in prison for having sexual contact with a student at the school.

In 2011, Dale Fry, 57, of Woodridge, was convicted of criminal sexual assault and aggravated sexual abuse. He faced up to 22 years in prison.

In February 2010, Oswego police were contacted by the girl and her parents, who said Fry had sexual contact with her on more than one occasion after school. Fry, a literature and English teacher, was immediately placed on leave. He resigned later that month.

According to Kendall County State’s Attorney Eric Weis, in 2009 Fry kissed, fondled and received oral sex from a student in his classroom after school hours. Prosecutors said a janitor interrupted the sex act by walking into the darkened and locked classroom.

During the investigation, Oswego detectives recovered several text messages from Fry to the student, describing how he missed her and loved her, police said.

At the sentencing hearing, Fry was described as a favorite teacher who taught several introductory and advanced classes, prosecutors said. According to his profile on the district’s Web site, Fry taught contemporary American literature and English.

Fry is a graduate of Elmhurst College where he majored in English, history and philosophy, according to his profile. He received a master’s degree in administration and leadership. He was finishing a doctoral degree in education, the profile said.

During his tenure, Fry developed close ties to many students, but prosecutors said his relationship with one student crossed legal boundaries. Prosecutors said she feels violated and is still bothered by what Fry did. During Fry’s trial, Judge John Barsanti found the victim’s testimony credible and consistent with other witnesses, prosecutors said.

“These types of cases are difficult on the victim and the victim’s family,” Weis said. “This case should serve as an example to other victims of sexual or physical abuse to come forward. The criminal justice system depends on the cooperation and support of the victim and their families.”

Fry will have to serve 85 percent of his 5-year sentence and pay $1,165 in fines and fees. He will receive credit for 359 days he has already served in the Kendall County Jail.

After he is released from prison, he will be on probation for at least three years. He will also have to register as a sex offender for life.

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