A Texas teacher was arrested after being caught by police in an alleged sexual relationship with a minor student, authorities reported.
Jennifer Massey, a 51-year-old art teacher at Davenport High School, was taken into custody on Thursday following a 911 call that led deputies to an under-construction home in Garden Ridge.
According to the Comal County Sheriff’s Office, officers were responding to a report of a “suspicious person” at the unoccupied building around 6 p.m. Upon arriving, deputies discovered Massey inside the house along with a male juvenile. Based on their initial investigation, authorities concluded that the two were engaged in sexual activity.
Massey was subsequently arrested and charged with an improper relationship between an educator and a student, which is classified as a second-degree felony in Texas. She is currently being held at the Comal County Jail.
In response to the incident, the Comal Independent School District (ISD), where Massey was employed, condemned her alleged behaviour and announced that she has been placed on administrative leave. “The district does not condone inappropriate relationships between teachers and students. Ensuring the safety and security of our students is our top priority,” Comal ISD said in a statement provided to KENS 5, a local CBS affiliate.
The district also sent a message to parents on Friday, informing them of the arrest. “The district learned that last night Mrs. Massey was charged with having an improper relationship with a student,” the message stated. “Mrs. Massey was placed on administrative leave this morning, and she will not be returning to Davenport High School.”
For those who have experienced sexual assault, resources are available. In New York, individuals can call 1-800-942-6906 for free and confidential crisis counseling. Outside of New York, the 24/7 National Sexual Assault Hotline can be reached at 1-800-656-4673.
