Florida Criminal Attorney Blog
A Citrus County teacher has been suspended without pay while an investigation is conducted regarding accusations that she gave students pot, alcohol and sex tips at a Christmas party hosted at her home last December.
The woman could face termination.
A complaint was filed Dec. 15 with the district against the Citrus High School teacher.
The complaints alleges that the woman hosted a party Dec. 12 at her home for several students.
According to the district, the woman may have known several high school students were drinking alcohol and smoking marijuana at her home. She is accused of hosting several parties over the summer and fall where similar incidents were reported and she allegedly discussed her sexual relationship with her spouse to students, discussing how to perform oral sex acts with students and reportedly making sexually derogatory statements to a male student over the phone.
School district officials claim they interviewed 15 students who all said they attended an “ugly sweater” party at the woman’s house. They reportedly said six students had to stay overnight at the teacher’s home because they were too intoxicated.
The district report says that it is not clear if the woman provided the alcohol or marijuana to the students.
According to the district report, a Snapchat video of the woman was taken showing her wearing a student’s jacket and slurring her words.
Citrus County Sheriff’s Office spokeswoman Heather Yates says they have forwarded the case on to the State Attorney’s Office. No charges have been filed at this point.
It can be devastating to a teacher when they are removed from their classroom following accusations of misconduct. Many teachers hear rumors of misconduct floating around at their school and fear their reputations will be ruined no matter what the outcome. These humiliating accusations can lead to a criminal investigation or even an arrest, often without any evidence to corroborate the accuser’s story.
Teacher’s under investigation for misconduct are in a difficult situation. Some may want to speak out against the allegations and risk making self-incriminating statements and others remain silent, risking disciplinary action or firing by the district. The best thing to do when faced with such a situation is to enlist the help of a Florida Criminal Defense Lawyer at Whittel & Melton as soon as you realize you might be under investigation. Often times, early intervention in these types of cases can result in no charges being filed and teachers reinstated to their classrooms. Every case is unique – we can evaluate your situation and implement the best defense strategy to work towards a favorable resolution. Call us today at 352-726-0078 or contact us online for a free consultation.