A 35-year-old female teacher from Slidell High School in Louisiana has been arrested on suspicion of sending nude photographs to her students and engaging in sexual activity with at least one of them, as reported by WDSU.
Alexa Wingerter, who taught at the public school with approximately 1,700 students, had been under investigation by police since early March, when authorities received complaints about her alleged inappropriate relationships with male students.
Through interviews and search warrants, investigators discovered that Wingerter had been sending inappropriate photos and messages to students via social media platforms.
Sources also revealed that Wingerter had purchased alcohol for her underage students at local bars.
The most damning evidence found by authorities was that Wingerter had a sexual relationship with an 18-year-old male student while she was his teacher. The subject Wingerter taught at the school has not been disclosed.
In response to the arrest, the St. Tammany School Board issued a statement emphasizing their commitment to student safety and well-being.
Superintendent Frank Jabbia stated that the district has responded appropriately, is fully cooperating with the Slidell Police Department, and has strict policies in place to ensure that any behavior compromising student safety is not tolerated.
Wingerter has been charged with suspicion of prohibited sexual conduct between an educator and student, as well as the unlawful purchase of alcoholic beverages on behalf of a person under 21. The investigation is ongoing, and police are encouraging more victims to come forward.
Credit: WDSU