BARDSTOWN, Ky. (WDRB) — The investigation into the alleged sexual assault of a Bardstown High School student by his or her teacher started with an anonymous letter sent to the district.
According to the Bardstown Police Department, 31-year-old Mary "Hanna" Mattingly was charged with sexual abuse and procuring or promoting use of a minor by electronic means. A written statement from Bardstown City Schools said the district received an anonymous letter outlining "alleged inappropriate conduct between a female substitute teacher and a student." Mattingly was placed on administrative leave, and Bardstown City Schools officials contacted police.
Police said the letter, received by the district March 26, led to an investigation that revealed Mattingly engaged in sexual activity and sent partially nude photos online to a student.
"It had been going on for several months," Bardstown Police Detective Eric Williamson said Wednesday. "Social media was the main avenue for the communication."
Bardstown City Schools said Mattingly has since been fired from her teaching position.
"As a school district we always take any report seriously and investigate thoroughly," the district said in a written statement. "We are committed to the safety and education of our students. As always, we encourage our students, parents and staff to report to District Administrators anything they see or hear that is alarming or inappropriate."
Mattingly was arrested by Bardstown City Police officers and taken to the Nelson County Correctional Center. She posted a $20,000 bond Tuesday and is scheduled to be arraigned April 7.
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