Nucla teacher ‘addicted’ to porn

MONTROSE — Stating he developed an “addiction,” to pornography, Nucla High School teacher and former football coach Thomas Helmbrecht pleaded to be allowed contact with his daughters, and for a manageable bond.

Helmbrecht, 50, was arrested Wednesday night at his home on the West End. He was being held on suspicion of sexual exploitation of children-possessing sexually exploitative material.

The Montrose County Sheriff’s Office would not divulge information about the alleged offense Thursday morning.

“They were all there. They were free. They were downloads,” Helmbrecht said during court Thursday afternoon, shortly after learning court conditions would not allow him to contact any female under the age of 18, including his daughters. (The girls are not alleged to be victims in this case).

“I would never hurt my daughters, ever. I love my daughters and they love me. I would graciously ask you to let me see my daughters,” he said.

———

For the full story, see today's print edition. The online story may not reflect all relevant information that was reported. We encourage readers to obtain the full story by reading the print edition or our e-edition, To subscribe, call (970) 252-7081 or click on the subscription link on the main page.