A Los Angeles schoolteacher has been arrested and charged with the sexual assault of a 13-year-old student, sparking concerns among investigators that more victims may exist. The teacher, Colleen Jo Matarico, faces multiple charges and is currently held on $1.3 million bail.
Details and Charges
In a deeply disturbing incident that has sent shockwaves through the Southern California educational community, a Los Angeles schoolteacher has been arrested and charged with the alleged sexual assault of a 13-year-old student. The arrest of 43-year-old Colleen Jo Matarico, a Valley Village resident, was announced by the Los Angeles Police Department on Thursday.
According to a news release from the LAPD, Matarico allegedly groomed her student before engaging in sexual acts within her classroom and later in her vehicle. Authorities fear that there may be more victims who have not yet come forward, prompting an urgent request for information from the public.
Matarico has been charged with five counts of lewd acts with a minor, two counts of lewd acts with minors aged 14 or 15, and one count of furnishing marijuana to a minor. The specifics of where Matarico was teaching have not been disclosed by officials.
Community Alert and Request for Information
Amidst these grave allegations, detectives have released a photograph of Matarico to facilitate the identification and outreach to potential additional victims. She is currently in custody with bail set at $1.3 million.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Assistance
The investigation remains active, and anyone possessing further information is strongly encouraged to contact the LAPD’s Juvenile Division Abused Child Section at 424-259-7097. For those who wish to remain anonymous, tips can be submitted via the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers Hotline at 800-222-8477 or online at www.lacrimestoppers.org.
As this case unfolds, authorities and community members alike are focused on bringing justice to all affected and ensuring the safety and well-being of the student body.
