LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — A 73-year-old former volunteer coach at Palo Verde High School will spend the rest of his life behind bars after pleading guilty to sexually assaulting a child under 14 years old.
Michael Atwell was sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole after 35 years on Friday by Clark County District Court Judge Eric Johnson. The sentencing followed Atwell's guilty plea in August to charges of lewdness and sexual assault of a child under 14.
Las Vegas Metropolitan Police arrested Atwell in November 2024 after receiving a report of sexual assault.
As part of his sentencing agreement, Atwell must pay approximately $7,700 in restitution to the victim and a victim's crime fund. He is also required to register as a sex offender.
The Clark County School District fired Atwell following his arrest. At the time, Palo Verde principal Lisa Schumacher said Atwell's charges were not related to his role at the school.
-
Police: 17-year-old arrested for death of woman found beaten in east Las Vegas
A 17-year-old is now jailed for open murder as part of a police investigation into the death of a woman found beaten in east Las Vegas on April 21.
Judge denies bail reduction for veteran charged in Atomic Golf standoff
A judge denied a bail reduction for Andrew Mullen, a veteran charged with multiple felonies after a shooting and six-hour standoff at Atomic Golf.
FULL HEARING: Judge denies bail reduction for veteran involved in Atomic Golf standoff
A judge denied a bail reduction for Andrew Mullen, a veteran charged with multiple felonies after a shooting and six-hour standoff at Atomic Golf.
Shooting, SWAT standoff north of Las Vegas Strip leaves mark on tourists and locals
Abel Garcia hears the reaction from community members and tourists after a lengthy SWAT standoff on the north end of the Las Vegas Strip.