Special Education Teacher Charged with Sexual Assault in Wisconsin
A special education teacher from Wisconsin is potentially facing decades behind bars due to allegations of sexually assaulting two students and providing them alcohol.
The Eau Claire Police Department was alerted by the Eau Claire Regional School District on March 25 about a potential inappropriate relationship involving a staff member and a student.
According to police reports, they began an investigation into Nadia Horne, a 22-year-old teacher at North High School in Eau Claire. Horne was arrested on the same day at around 4:15 p.m.
“During the investigation, multiple victims were identified,” police noted. Horne is now charged with several offenses, including second-degree sexual assault of a minor, and multiple counts of child enticement and sexual assault involving a person working with children.
If convicted on all counts, Horne could receive a sentence of up to 40 years in prison and may face a fine of $100,000. After posting a $15,000 bail, Horne was released on March 30.
Details from the criminal complaint reveal that Horne engaged in sexual activities with a 16-year-old boy between January 14 and March 25. Additionally, Horne had transferred the girl to his class in January. Police learned he asked the student for her phone number and social media credentials, although she claimed not to own a cell phone.
Notably, detectives found that Horne allegedly purchased cell phones for students and provided them transportation outside school activities. One student described receiving suggestive photos from Horne, although they were not nude.
In one troubling account, a student reported that Horne picked her up and took her to his apartment, where she felt “trapped” as he initiated sexual contact. The student stated, “I did all the sexual things I could do to someone.”
Investigators were shown videos by the boy, which confirmed the location to be Horne’s apartment setting.
On March 25, police visited Horne’s home. When questioned about the situation, Horne acknowledged he may have made a mistake by involving students at a party. He admitted to buying an iPhone for one victim, asserting it was to help him.
Horne mentioned that he had been in a sexual relationship with one of the victims, claiming it occurred three times, and acknowledged sending intimate messages to the student.
Another alleged victim, also a 16-year-old student at North High School, claimed to have had sexual relations with Horne on more than one occasion. Horne suggested that this second encounter felt mutual and insisted on providing alcohol during their time together.
Surveillance footage from Horne’s apartment depicted several teens entering and exiting his residence on March 15, further raising concerns.
Eau Claire School District Superintendent Mike Johnson confirmed Horne’s suspension without pay while the investigation unfolds. Johnson emphasized the district’s commitment to protecting students and highlighted the seriousness of the allegations.
The police are continuing their investigation into these disturbing claims. Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to contact the authorities.
Court proceedings for Horne are set for May 20.
