Former Gilman School teacher Chris Bendann refuses to appear in court

A former Gilman School teacher accused of sexually assaulting a student and recording explicit videos on Wednesday refused to appear for his trial in federal court.

Chief U.S. District Judge James K. Bredar said the U.S. Marshals Service went to the Chesapeake Detention Facility, where Chris Bendann “refused to accompany them and come to the courthouse.”

Bredar ordered deputy U.S. Marshals to go to Bendann's cell and give him orders to appear for jury selection.

“He must be present,” said Bredar. “At least at the beginning of the trial.”

Assistant U.S. Attorney Colleen McGuinn said federal prosecutors are prepared for trial.

Gary Proctor, one of Bendann's lawyers, urged police not to forcibly remove his client from his cell.

Last week, Proctor said, his co-counselor Christopher Nieto contacted the prison to have Bendann tested for suicidal thoughts.

Bendann, 40, of Baltimore, is charged in U.S. District Court in Baltimore with sexual exploitation of a child, possession of child pornography and cyberstalking. He maintains his innocence.

This is an evolving story.