Trial set to begin in case of teacher who faked attack

BOTHELL — The trial gets underway Monday for the Bothell High School teacher who admitted faking an attack at the school in May.

KIRO-TV reports that prosecutors charged Cal Pygott with false statements to a public servant and obstructing public officers.

Pygott was found bleeding with a zip tie around his neck. Pygott said he was attacked from behind while in his classroom.

Bothell police locked down the school and opened an investigation that kept turning up inconsistencies with Pygott’s statement.

Pygott finally admitted that he tied the zip tie around his neck and hurt himself with a hammer. Pygott said he did it because he was in debt.

Police announced in August that the teacher had lied.

If convicted, he could face up to a year in jail and $5,000 fine for each charge.