A 43-year-old special education teacher, Colleen Jo Matarico, faces serious charges after allegedly s*xually abusing a 13-year-old student.
The Los Angeles woman pleaded not guilty to multiple felony counts, including lewd acts with a minor and providing a controlled substance.
Prosecutors allege that Matarico engaged in a year-long s*xual relationship with the student, even leaving her husband for the teenager. She reportedly referred to the boy as her “crystal meth” in online messages.
Despite pleas from family members and the boy’s own concerns, Matarico persisted in her pursuit.
The alleged abuse occurred both during and after the student’s time at John Burroughs Middle School, where Matarico was employed.
The most recent incident involved Matarico waiting for the boy at his high school and s*xually assaulting him in her car.
A judge denied Matarico’s request for house arrest, citing concerns about her continued contact with the victim.
A protective order has been issued to prevent further interaction.
