Music teacher charged with criminal sexual misconduct

A Twin Cities music teacher is facing criminal sexual conduct charges for allegedly touching a student inappropriately.

The father of a 15-year-old boy told Eden Prairie police that Robert James Ladwig inappropriately touched the boy during private flute lessons at the family's home. The alleged abuse was reported in June and happened over the previous three months, when the boy was 14.

The alleged victim told authorities that Ladwig made similar sexual advances over a three month period earlier this year.

According to the criminal complaint, the boy's father said he saw his son and Ladwig sitting close together on a couch after a lesson. The father says the two quickly moved apart when they noticed him.

Two years ago, Ladwig pleaded guilty to disorderly conduct for kissing a young female student. Ladwig, 29, says on his website that he teaches more than a dozen instruments, including woodwinds, piano, and brass.

Ladwig is charged with fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct. The charge carries a maximum prison sentence of 10 years and a maximum fine of $20,000.

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