Residents in a Douglas County, Nebraska neighborhood became suspicious when they noticed a car parked on a dead-end road at 3 a.m. The police were called and they found Erin Ward, an Omaha high school teacher, putting her clothes on in the back seat of the car. A naked teenager was seen running from the scene, and it was later revealed that Ward had been having sex with a 17-year-old student whom she had met while working at Burke High School. Ward was arrested and charged with sexual abuse by a school employee, which carries a maximum 20-year prison sentence.
The incident unfolded in the early hours of April 13, with the teenager attempting to drive off when officers approached the car. They crashed nearby and fled on foot, leading to minor injuries for both Ward and the teenager. After being taken to the hospital for treatment, Ward was taken into custody and remains in the Douglas County jail. She is married and has three children, according to news reports. The investigation is ongoing and anyone with additional information is urged to contact the sheriff’s office.
Burke High School principal, Darren Rasmussen, released a statement following Ward’s arrest, confirming that she had worked at the school as a substitute teacher during the 2023-24 school year. He assured the public that Ward would not be returning to any school in the district. The principal emphasized that the safety and well-being of the students is their top priority, and counselors would be available for students who needed support. If anyone has concerns about inappropriate behavior, they are encouraged to contact Child Protective Services or law enforcement.
The age of consent in Nebraska is 16, so Ward was not charged with statutory rape despite the 17-year-old student being a minor. The incident has raised questions about the inappropriate conduct between a teacher and student, leading to concerns about the safety and welfare of students in educational settings. The felony charge of sexual abuse by a school employee carries serious consequences, highlighting the importance of upholding professional boundaries and ensuring a safe environment for students.
The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to investigate the case, and they urge anyone with information about Ward to come forward. The incident has sparked a conversation about the responsibility of educators to protect their students and maintain appropriate relationships. The principal’s message to students and staff emphasizes the district’s commitment to ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all students. It serves as a reminder of the importance of reporting any concerns about inappropriate behavior to authorities for investigation and appropriate action.
In conclusion, the arrest of Erin Ward for engaging in a sexual relationship with a minor student has raised concerns about the safety of students in educational settings. The incident has led to ongoing investigations by law enforcement and a commitment from the school district to support students who may be affected by the situation. By emphasizing the importance of reporting inappropriate behavior and supporting student well-being, the school is working to ensure a safe and secure environment for all students. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining professional boundaries and protecting the welfare of students in educational institutions.
