Bendann back in court, trial for alleged abuse continues

The trial of former Gilman School teacher Christopher Bendann continues today on multiple charges of sexual exploitation of a minor, possession of child pornography and cyberstalking while working at the all-boys school in Baltimore.

So far, multiple witnesses have testified, including parents who said they trusted Bendann to house-sit and babysit when they were out of town. The trial also heard from former students who described Bendann as a trusted figure in the Gilman community. They described how he would often take them out to dinner, go to house parties, and hang out with them. The students also said they communicated with him regularly through social media, particularly Snapchat.

One disturbing detail that emerged from the testimonies involved so-called “naked runs.” According to the students, Bendann would drive them to local parks, where they would strip naked and run in exchange for rides and other favors. These activities were reportedly part of a pattern of inappropriate behavior that Bendann allegedly engaged in with the students.

As the trial progresses, more witnesses are expected to come forward, shedding more light on the allegations against Bendann.