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Bothell teacher accused of faking assault resigns

<p>Bothell High School woodshop teacher Cal Pygott (Credit: KING)</p>

SEATTLE -- A Bothell High School teacher, who police say claimed he was assaulted at school after he aborted a suicide attempt, has resigned.

Woodshop teacher Cal Pygott was found by another teacher at the school last May with a zip tie around his neck and trauma to his head. Police say Pygott claimed someone assaulted him. But detectives could find no evidence to back up the claim and, after interviewing him some more, Pygott eventually admitted he made it up.

Police transcripts showed Pygott told detectives he wanted to commit suicide because of debt and financial difficulties. But after putting the zip tie around his own neck, he changed his mind. During his effort to remove the zip tie, another teacher found him. Pygott told detectives he made up the assault story to keep his reputation.

The Northshore School District placed Pygott on paid administrative leave after the revelation.

Pygott resigned last Thursday.

Pygott has been charged with making false statements and obstruction of justice. He faces up to a year in jail and a $5,000 fine for each charge if convicted. His trial is set to begin in December.

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