Hearing set July 19 for Elwell

Dressed in a light denim, long-sleeved shirt and tie, William Charles Elwell, former Brainerd School District social studies teacher, appeared Tuesday in Crow Wing District Court before Judge Allan Markert on a charge of felony solicitation of a child to engage in sexual conduct.

Markert set an omnibus hearing for 1:30 p.m. July 19. At that time, Elwell, 34, Baxter, also will appear on a charge of felony possession of pornographic work involving minors.

Elwell, who taught at the district's Area Education Center, was accused of soliciting sex on the Internet from a juvenile Rochester girl.

Elwell was released on his own recognizance with conditions, including he have no contact with any juveniles besides his daughter and not use any computers.

After his appearance, Elwell went to the Crow Wing County jail to be booked on the felony possession charge.

Elwell appeared with his attorney, Chuck Halverson, Brainerd. Appearing for the prosecution was Crow Wing Assistant County Attorney Rocky Wells.

Brainerd Superintendent Jerry Walseth said Tuesday that Elwell will continue to receive his health insurance benefits through the end of August, which is when Elwell's teaching contract with the district expires. Elwell had been with the district for three years.

The Brainerd School Board voted in July to terminate Elwell's contract and did not accept his resignation letter. The board also wanted to immediately terminate his benefits if legally possible.

Walseth said that according to Elwell's teaching contract, he is entitled to benefits through August.

JENNIFER STOCKINGER can be reached at jennifer.stockinger@brainerddispatch.com or 855-5851.