Ramona man, 69, posts bond in molestation case

By Neal Putnam

A former teacher’s aide at Ramona High School charged with molesting a Chula Vista boy posted $250,000 bond after a judge lowered the bail from $500,000 on March 27.

Robert Buechner, 69, resigned as part-time special education teacher’s aide at Ramona High School the day of his arrest, March 20. Ramona school officials assured parents that no Ramona students are involved.

The alleged victim is now a 15-year-old boy in Chula Vista. The case is not related to his teaching role as Buechner met the boy through a member of the boy’s family, according to reports.

Chula Vista Superior Court Judge Katherine Bacal, who increased his bail to $500,000 on March 22, lowered the bail to $250,000 over the objection of Deputy District Attorney Karra Reedy.

Buechner’s attorney, Ryan Tegnelia, argued that his client had no previous accusations in his 30 years in education. He is married and has adult children.

Reedy said Buechner acted as a mentor to the alleged victim. He has pleaded not guilty to 11 charges and awaits a May 18 preliminary hearing.