LINCOLN, NE – A stunning incident involving a substitute teacher in Nebraska has shocked the community after she was apprehended in a compromising position with a 17-year-old male student. The Douglas County Sheriff’s Department confirmed the arrest of 45-year-old Erin Ward on Saturday night.
The incident came to light after law enforcement received a report about a suspicious vehicle parked on a dead-end street around 3 a.m. Deputies swiftly responded to the scene and discovered Ward and the teenager in a compromising state in the car’s backseat, as reported by WOWT [1].
As soon as the student realized law enforcement had arrived, he hastily moved to the front seat before attempting to flee by driving away. However, just a short distance away, he crashed the vehicle and bolted into the night, leaving behind a stunned Ward.
Remaining at the scene, Ward quickly donned her clothing and allegedly confessed to engaging in sexual activity with the young student. Authorities confirmed that she possessed identification from Omaha Public Schools and confessed to working as a substitute teacher at various schools, including Burke High School, where the student was enrolled, according to KLKN [2].
The police later found the teenager hiding in a nearby yard, clad only in underwear and a t-shirt.
Investigators discovered that the vehicle in question belonged to Ward and her spouse, further adding to the disconcerting nature of the situation.
As a result, Ward now faces charges of felony sexual abuse by a school employee, a serious offense that has alarmed the local community and concerned parents. The incident serves as a chilling reminder of the importance of safeguarding students from any form of exploitation.
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Omaha Public Schools have launched an internal investigation into the matter, vowing to fully cooperate with law enforcement authorities. The school district expressed deep concern regarding this disturbing incident, and reassured parents and guardians that they remain committed to providing a safe learning environment for all students.
The legal process will continue to unfold as authorities investigate the full extent of the incident, ensuring justice prevails and the well-being of the students remains paramount.
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