Teacher sex assault hearing delayed

A preliminary hearing was postponed Wednesday in the case of a former teacher accused of sexual misconduct with a student.

Defense counsel for Nichole Noel Thiel moved for a postponement in the case because discovery — the pretrial exchange of evidence in the case — is voluminous. As a result, more time was needed to prepare for the hearing, Coeur d’Alene attorney Michael G. Palmer said in court documents.

Judge Justin Julian granted the continuance on Wednesday, court records show.

Thiel is free on her own recognizance. She is charged with sexual battery of a minor between the ages of 16-17/ Keith Kinnaird , Bonner County Daily Bee. More here.