The latest teacher sex scandal involves a newly hired substitute teacher from New Mexico who has since been fired. The 30-year-old married woman was charged with sexual penetration and sexual contact with a minor, authorities said.
Estancia resident Michaela Ford was arrested Friday and charged with seven crimes, including sexual penetration and sexual contact with a minor. Mr. Ford is being held at the Torrance County Detention Center.
According to court documents, surveillance video showed the encounter between Ford and the child.
Mr. Ford worked at Estancia High School. Citing court records, KOAT-TV The station reported that a witness came forward who said he saw Ford kissing an underage student near the middle school and high school on Nov. 6. The station reported that Ford asked the principal not to tell her husband about the behavior.
The school has launched an investigation into the allegations. According to court documents, surveillance video showed the encounter between Ford and the child.
The Estancia Municipal School District released a statement Monday saying it was “disturbed to learn of the charges against which a former substitute teacher for the district was arrested.”
“The school district is working closely with law enforcement to ensure a thorough investigation,” the school district said. “Student safety is our top priority. The district follows all laws and policies regarding the employment of staff, including comprehensive background checks.”
According to the school district, Ford had been employed at the high school for less than a month. Mr. Ford was “immediately separated from his students” after allegations of sexual misconduct surfaced.
“The district is currently focusing its efforts and resources on supporting students who need support and instruction,” the district said in a statement.
The district added, “Since this issue has just been discovered, details are unknown.'' “To protect our students, all information related to this matter will be treated as confidential. Our district is proud to be a close-knit, caring community of learners. We will continue to take all necessary measures to ensure safety.”
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