Sep. 6—CATLETTSBURG — A Boyd County teacher accused of raping and sexually abusing a high school student made his court debut in Boyd County District Court on Wednesday.

Michael D. Spears, 45, of Ashland, appeared for an official arraignment before Boyd District Judge Scott Reese after posting bond following his Friday night arrest.

A Boyd County Sheriff's Deputy reported Spears — in the interview that resulted in his arrest — admitted to investigators he had sexual intercourse with a 17-year-old student twice on school property in the 2022-23 school year, per court records.

However, Spears's attorney waived formal arraignment, meaning Reese did not announce Spears's charges, and entered a not guilty plea on Spears's behalf.

According to court records, Spears is charged with two counts of third-degree rape and one count of first-degree sexual abuse, both class D felonies which carry up to five years in prison per count.

Spears is scheduled to appear again Sept. 13 at 1 p.m.

Spears will remain out on bond as long as he abides by court orders.

(606) 326-2652 — mjepling@dailyindependent.com