FARGO (KFGO-AM) -- Suspended West Fargo High School teacher Aaron Knodel has denied that he had any inappropriate contact with a student six years ago.
The denial came during three hours of testimony in his sexual misconduct trial.
He acknowledged that he was paying extra attention to the student, but he told a district court jury in Fargo that he was only trying to help her deal with serious personal and family issues.
Knodel and the student exchanged 93 phone calls, one lasted four hours.
Knodel's wife took the witness stand on his behalf. Under cross examination by prosecutor Jon Byers, Marie Knodel said her husband is a dedicated teacher and often went the extra mile for his students. She said she was aware of the calls and text messages.
The defense has three remaining witnesses before closing statements from both sides. The trial continues Monday.