Zumba instructor Alexis Wright has been sentenced to 10 months in jail for prostitution after agreeing to a plea deal according to NBC News.
Wright was using her dance studio as the forefront of a "prostitution ring." The Zumba instructor's sentencing also includes conspiracy, tax evasion, and theft by deception charges. The plea deal lessened the instructor's charges and allowed her to opt out of trial.
"It's my intention to stand up for what is right," Wright said. "When I'm out, I'm going to pursue helping people fight through situations that are similar to mine. I'm optimistic that something good will come out of this."
Defense attorneys used Wright's childhood to excuse her behavior and invoke juror sympathy. Wright's attorney claims she is a victim of sexual abuse which lingers in her adult life.
Journals of clients and videos of sexual encounters were used towards Wright's conviction. Conversations between Wright, her clients, and her business partner Mark Strong, were heavily documented on electronic devices to which all proved she was guilty. Reportedly, the suspect agreed to the plea deal to avoid a lengthy and expensive trial against concrete evidence.
Those who have indulged in Wright's services have also been charged. It's unclear if any of the clients will be serving jail time or the amount of fines they are required to pay.
According to USA Today, the 30-year-old Zumba instructor made "$150,000 tax free while collecting welfare" and prosecutors are asking for $57,280 in restitution.
Strong, was also sentenced to 15 days in jail. He was reportedly charged for acting as a promoter for the prostitution ring. Strong will also be financially liable and has been ordered to pay a $3,000 fine.
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