California Woman Sentenced to 35 Years in Prison for Teen Parties

A Los Gatos woman was sentenced Thursday in Santa Clara County Superior Court to a maximum of 35 years and 10 months in state prison. Shannon O’Connor, also known as Shannon Bruga, was convicted in March on dozens of charges tied to parties that included underage drinking and sexual misconduct among teens. Prosecutors said she facilitated nonconsensual sexual activity between some of the minors.

Rosen said the sentence provides justice for the victims and their families. O’Connor, 52, has been in jail since her arrest, earning about nine and a half years of credit, leaving roughly 27 years remaining. With good behavior, the term could be shorter.

Her attorney, Stephen Prekoski, said the defense will appeal and argued O’Connor did not receive a meaningful opportunity to settle the case. He also disputed claims that she lacked remorse.

Several victims and parents attended the hearing and requested the maximum sentence. Kate Gude, whose complaint initiated the police investigation, said the outcome shows the value of speaking out. O’Connor addressed the court, acknowledging she had let down families who entrusted their children to her and noting the impact on her own children over the past five years.