Bemidji (trfnews.i234.me) — A former paraprofessional connected to Bemidji-area schools pleaded guilty Monday to a charge involving electronic communication of a sexual nature with a child, according to court records.
Bridget Elizabeth Lindell, 31, entered a guilty plea to one count of engaging in electronic communication relating to or describing sexual conduct with a child. A second count, involving distribution of similar material to a child, is expected to be dismissed at sentencing under the plea agreement.
Plea Agreement Terms
Under the agreement, Lindell faces up to 45 days in jail. The defense may ask for less time. The defense may also request electronic home monitoring.
The agreement also calls for five years of supervised probation. It includes a $500 fine.
Lindell must have no contact with the victim. She also may not have contact with anyone under 18.
The agreement restricts internet access as well. It bars her from using the internet. It also bars her from having internet-capable devices. Any exception would require approval from her probation agent.
What Investigators Alleged
According to court documents, Lindell communicated with a 13-year-old student between April and December 2024. The documents say the messages were sent using Snapchat.
Authorities became involved after the student reported the situation to a school counselor, according to the records. Investigators later spoke with other students. Court documents state some students said they had seen the material.
When investigators contacted Lindell, court records say she confirmed several of the videos were of her. The records also describe a statement she made about seeking attention.
This case involves a juvenile. TRF News is not naming the victim.
Work History Cited in Records
Court documents state Lindell was not a direct employee of the school district. Records say she worked through Teachers Inc. as a contracted paraprofessional.
The documents list work assignments that included Bemidji Middle School, Bemidji High School, Solway School, and Northern School.
Sentencing information was not included in the summary provided. Future court hearings will determine final sentencing terms.
For more information on Minnesota laws related to these charges, readers can review the Minnesota Statutes. General court information is also available through the Minnesota Judicial Branch website.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
Bemidji is messed up, the good and the bad