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Former Teacher Accused Of Sexually Assaulting Minor Arrives In Court With Teen Girlfriend

MODESTO (CBS13) - A former Modesto teacher who made national headlines after leaving his family for a student was back in court Tuesday with that former student by his side.

James Hooker, 41, is facing sexual assault charges stemming from a 1998 case involving another one of his former teen students.

Hooker arrived at the courthouse for his 8:30 a.m/ hearing with 18-year-old Jordan Powers, his current girlfriend and former student at Modesto's Enochs High School. The pair made headlines earlier this year when he left his wife and children to move-in with Powers shortly after her 18th birthday.

Hooker was in court on felony sex charges in a case involving a different student 14 years ago. During the five-minute preliminary hearing, Hooker rejected his public defender and said he wanted to be represented by a private attorney.

His new attorney, Mary Lynn Belsher, said she really has not had time to review the case but has had discussions with Hooker.

His next appearance for this case is scheduled for June 12.

Hooker is also due in family court next month after his wife filed for divorce and child support.

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