A former teacher at The First Academy in Orlando, Harriet Sugg, is facing allegations of failing to take action against former teacher Harriet Sugg, who allegedly sexually assaulted a student in 2016. The accused, Jessica Lawson, a 36-year-old high school teacher from Idaho, was arrested on charges of rape, delivering a controlled substance, and dispensing alcohol to a minor. The incident came to light when Lawson was found in a car with a drunk teen boy by the St. Anthony Police Department.
According to court documents, the police officer discovered the teen boy behind the wheel, and he claimed that Lawson allowed him to drive because she was too intoxicated. After further investigation, the boy’s parents informed the police that Lawson had picked up their son the previous night and taken him to her home, where they engaged in sexual activity. Lawson later admitted to giving the boy alcohol but denied any further misconduct.
Lawson, who recently finalized a divorce and custody agreement with her husband, taught at South Fremont High School from August 2021 to June 2023. It remains unclear whether she had the boy in her class before the incident. The school has not commented on her employment status.
A warrant was issued for Lawson’s arrest, and she is currently incarcerated on a $250,000 bond. If convicted on all counts, she could face life behind bars. Her attorney argues that the bail amount is excessive and plans to request a bond reduction.
The preliminary court hearing for Lawson is scheduled for November 27.
