UPDATED: Hartland Principal Case Over Underage Drinking Delayed

FENTON — The case against a Hartland elementary school principal and her husband over whether they has adjourned for four weeks after a pre-trial conference Thursday.

Matt Norwood, attorney for principal Tracey Sahouri, told Fenton District Judge Mark McCabe more time was needed for additional "discovery" and "negotiations." The case is now scheduled to be back before McCabe for another 8:30 a.m. pre-trial conference Sept. 29.

Norwood said after the hearing the talks are not about any possible plea agreement and could lead to a dismissal of the charges connected to the July 9 incident at the couple's Argentine Township home.

"That's what I'm hoping," Norwood said.

But Genesee County Prosecutor David Leyton said the case is strong enough for court. He said having two pre-trials is a routine procedure at the court in part to provide the defense all the evidence prior to a trial while also allowing time for the two sides to resolve the case.

"We had probable cause to issue the charges, and according to investigators, there is ample evidence to proceed for trial," said Leyton in a telephone interview with Hartland Patch.

Sahouri and her husband, Raed, are accused of knowingly allowing underage drinking in an incident where a 16-year-old Linden girl had to be hospitalized. But the Sahouris — who both pleaded not guilty — maintain uninvited guests brought the alcohol and once became aware of the drinking and the girl's condition, they took action to stop the drinking and called authorities.

Violating the party host law is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 30 days in jail and/or $1,000 fine.

Tracey Sahouri remains on the job at Creekside, where classes start Tuesday. In , officials determined the allegations against Sahouri weren't credible enough to take any employment action while the case is pending unless further evidence came to light.

The issue has divided some parents in the Hartland community, where some say she should be fired or placed on administrative leave as the case plays out while others, citing a sterling reputation, say she should be given the benefit of the doubt and allowed to continue to work.

Editor's notes: The story was updated to include comments from Genesee County Prosecutor David Leyton. The wording of the consequences for breaking the party host law has been corrected.