Violence charges dropped against Harrington teacher

HARRINGTON — A local music teacher was cleared of domestic violence charges during a court appearance Thursday, Oct. 26.

Seth Michael Bergman, 33, has been cleared of two charges -- fourth-degree assault-domestic violence and malicious mischief-domestic violence.

He was arrested on accusations he slammed a door into his girlfriend and injured her forearm during an argument in a Harrington home Saturday, July 29.

According to Lincoln County District Court records, the state moved to dismiss the charges pursuant to the alleged victim’s wishes and in the interest of justice.

That same day, however, Bergman was sentenced to jail, but it wasn’t related to the assault accusations.

According to court documents, Bergman was sentenced to three days in jail and a $4,550 fine after failing to complete 24 hours of community service related to a third-degree driving with a suspended license conviction by Sept. 1.

He must report to jail Wednesday, Nov. 9.

Bergman was originally cited for driving with a suspended license after being pulled over Jan. 29 for speeding by Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office deputy Chad Cunningham on Harrington-Tokio Road, according to police reports. He was ordered to complete community service at a court appearance May 25.