A former Ripon High School teacher is accused of having sex with a student. Samantha Fitzpatrick made her initial Fond du Lac court appearance Wednesday on charges of child enticement, sexual assault of a student by school staff, exposing a child to harmful material and obstructing an officer. Bail was set at $1000 cash. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for January 5. Fitzpatrick is accused of sending sexually explicit text messages and a photo of herself to the 17 year old victim and having sex with the student on multiple occasions. Fitzpatrick was a teacher at Ripon High School last school year until she voluntarily resigned in May after the administration addressed concerns about her unreliable attendance. The charges carry a maximum penalty of more than 30 years in prison and $130,000 in fines.
Ripon School superintendent Dr. Mary Whitrock would not comment publically on the charges. However her office sent a letter to parents regarding the situation:
“In December 2016, the District investigated allegations of improper conduct by former employee Samantha Fitzpatrick. At the conclusion of the investigation, the District notified the City of Ripon Police Department and other relevant parties of the allegations. The City of Ripon Police Department and the Ripon Area School District concluded there was insufficient evidence to open a police investigation. It is our understanding, new information was shared with the City of Ripon Police Department in the spring and they conducted an investigation. In an effort to not hinder the police investigation, we are not commenting further. At this point we need to let the criminal justice system do its work. Samantha Fitzpatrick voluntarily resigned from employment effective May 3, 2017, after the administration addressed concerns about her unreliable attendance.
Student safety is an essential part of the District’s purpose and mission. The District cooperated with the investigation as requested and permitted by law and will continue to do so. Our top priority is for our students and staff. Please know that in any difficult situation, our counseling staff is available to provide support to students if needed. These resources are available for students at the student or parent’s request. If you need assistance please contact the office at your child’s school.”
Please contact Superintendent, Dr. Mary Whitrock, at whitrockm@ripon.k12.wi.us with any questions.
Post comments (0)