Ex-music teacher arrested over alleged inappropriate relationship with high school student
A former Connecticut music teacher, Ciara Picard, has been arrested on multiple charges after allegedly engaging in an inappropriate relationship with a former student.
According to records obtained by Fox News Digital, 39-year-old Picard, who taught at Maloney High School in Meriden, has been charged with five counts of second-degree indecent assault.
Details from an unsealed arrest warrant, cited by News 8 Daily News, reveal that the investigation began following allegations that Picard had engaged in a long-term, inappropriate relationship with a male student.
The student, now 25, first met Picard when he was 13 and a freshman at the school. Investigators say the relationship escalated and became intimate by the time he reached his junior year.
The warrant outlines a pattern of grooming and inappropriate contact. Communications between Picard and the student reportedly became increasingly personal and frequent, often occurring after school hours.
One notable instance cited in the documents involves a trip to New York City for a concert, during which the student, then 16, said Picard initiated a kiss and made other inappropriate advances.
Investigators also allege that Picard bought the student expensive dinners and gifts, exchanged explicit messages, and at times visited his home when no family members were present. Text messages reviewed by authorities included statements expressing strong desire and affection toward the student.
During an interview with detectives on August 26, Picard initially denied any wrongdoing but later admitted that her actions had “definitely crossed the line.”
She reportedly acknowledged telling the student she loved him and admitted the relationship was “not OK.”
Picard surrendered to police on December 2, was released on a $25,000 bond, and is scheduled to appear in court on December 16, according to NBC Connecticut.
Authorities continue to review the case as part of ongoing investigations into alleged misconduct by the former teacher.
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