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Ex-Piano Teacher Extradited for Child Abuse Sentencing

1/10/2026

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Summary

Story summary

John Michael Kaleel, a former piano instructor from West Hollywood, was extradited from Australia to Los Angeles.
Kaleel, 69, was convicted of lewd acts with minors; abuse began in 2011 when the victim was 13.
He fled to Australia during jury deliberations in October 2025.
The United States Department of Justice coordinated Kaleel's return, with sentencing on January 12 and a potential term of 10 years eight months.

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Story summary

John Michael Kaleel, a former piano instructor from West Hollywood, was extradited from Australia to Los Angeles.
Kaleel, 69, was convicted of lewd acts with minors; abuse began in 2011 when the victim was 13.
He fled to Australia during jury deliberations in October 2025.
The United States Department of Justice coordinated Kaleel's return, with sentencing on January 12 and a potential term of 10 years eight months.