Warning: This article discusses sexual assault and may be distressing for some readers.
In New Jersey, a teacher has been taken into custody and charged with the aggravated sexual assault of a former student.
Laura Caron, aged 34, faces charges including first-degree aggravated sexual assault, second-degree sexual assault, and second-degree endangerment of a child’s welfare.
The Cape May County Prosecutors Office confirmed through a Facebook post on Wednesday (January 15) that Caron was arrested and taken into custody without incident.
The press release elaborates: “The charges stem from an investigation revealing that between 2016 and 2020, Ms Caron engaged in an inappropriate sexual relationship with a student, born in 2005, who had been residing in her home during that time.”
Authorities allege that Caron abused the student beginning at age 11 and continuing until he was 15. Investigators claim she started an abusive relationship with him while teaching him and his brother in the fifth grade.
The Independent reports that Caron allegedly became pregnant with the student’s child when he was 13 and living with her.
Investigators say that the victim’s father posted on social media in December, expressing his belief that his son and Caron’s 5-year-old child, born in 2019, had a striking resemblance.
Court documents reveal that the alleged victim’s family had become friends with Caron, initially allowing their children to stay with her weekly, which eventually led to them living with her permanently, according to ABC News.
The boy allegedly told his sister via text message that he had been abused by Caron and fathered a child. He reiterated this account to the police during questioning.
If found guilty of sexual assault, Caron could face a prison sentence of 10 to 20 years, with the other two charges potentially adding another five to 10 years.
Prosecutor Jeffrey Sutherland has released a statement regarding the charges against Caron, who worked at Middle Township Elementary School.
He stated: “This arrest underscores the unwavering commitment of our office and law enforcement partners to protect the children in our community. Teachers hold a position of great trust, and the allegations in this case represent a deeply troubling breach of that trust.
“We will work tirelessly to ensure justice is served and to support the victim and their family throughout this process.”
The Independent reports that the Middle Township School District is collaborating with authorities and has offered counseling to those impacted by the news. Superintendent David Salvo commented: “When the district was first advised of the allegations, the staff member was immediately placed on and continues to be on paid administrative leave.
“Additional questions should be directed to the Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office.”
If you have been affected by these issues and need to speak to someone confidentially about child welfare, contact the NSPCC at 0808 800 5000, available 8am–10pm Monday to Friday, 9am–6pm weekends. For children seeking advice and support, call Childline for free at 0800 1111.