By Abigail Roberts
A Lincoln County Middle School teacher has been charged following a New Year’s Eve party at her residence during which underage children were allegedly drinking alcohol.
Jessica Berry, a sixth-grade LCMS social studies teacher, was cited and charged Jan. 1 with unlawful transaction with a minor (third-degree), a misdemeanor.
According to the citation, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Deputies responded at about 1:30 a.m. on Jan. 1 to Berry’s residence in Stanford where they were told 13 to 17-year-old children were drinking alcohol.
“It was determined through investigation that some of the juveniles brought alcohol to the party and the above being the only adult on scene contributed to the delinquency of approximately 20 under age children,” the citation states.
While responding to the residence, deputies received numerous statements that several intoxicated children were leaving the residence and a large traffic volume was taking kids out of the residence.
“Upon our arrival to the home there was 3 female juveniles and 3 male juveniles that admitted to drinking…,” the citation states.
At the time, deputies were told Berry had no knowledge and that the party was over and everyone was leaving, according to the citation.
Berry allegedly admitted later that day that the children were drinking at her home.
“Investigations and admissions later this date by the above adult (Berry) states that the children were drinking at her home and to the point where there were some falling in (the) yard and throwing up and being walked home,” the citation states. “She didn’t think anyone was intoxicated to the point of falling down. She states she has been honest to me today and never intended to give false information earlier in the day.”
Deputy Ron Luster handled the investigation. Luster said she was cited rather than arrested.
“She states this should not have happened and that it will not happen again,” the citation states.
Following the incident, the Lincoln County School District said Berry has been placed on administrative leave.
“We are aware of the charges against this teacher and we are investigating the matter,” said an official statement from the Lincoln County School District. “While the investigation is ongoing, the teacher will be placed on administrative leave.”
