Former Connecticut Music Teacher Faces Sexual Assault Charges After Alleged Relationship with Student
MERIDEN, Conn. — Ciara Picard, a former music teacher at Maloney High School, has been charged with multiple counts of second-degree sexual assault following allegations of an inappropriate relationship with a former student. The 39-year-old educator surrendered to police on December 2 and was released on a $25,000 bond. She is scheduled to appear in court on December 16.
According to court documents and an unsealed arrest warrant reviewed by Fox News Digital, the investigation began after authorities received reports that Picard had engaged in a sexual relationship with a male student she first met when he was 13 years old. The relationship reportedly escalated to sexual contact by the time the student reached his junior year of high school.
The victim, now 25, recounted that Picard began grooming him during his freshman year, with communications becoming increasingly personal and frequent, often occurring outside of school hours. Investigators detailed a trip to New York City for a concert during which Picard allegedly told the then-16-year-old student, “I’ve always wanted to kiss you,” before initiating their first kiss.
Further evidence includes text messages and photos exchanged between Picard and the student, some of which contained sexually explicit content. The warrant also describes Picard purchasing expensive dinners and gifts for the student and visiting his home when his family was absent.
When questioned by detectives on August 26, Picard initially denied any wrongdoing but later admitted that her interactions with the student “definitely crossed the line.” She also confessed to telling the student she loved him and acknowledged that the relationship was “not OK.”
The charges against Picard include five counts of second-degree sexual assault, a serious felony under Connecticut law. The case highlights ongoing concerns about safeguarding students from exploitation by educators, a matter that the Connecticut Department of Education continues to address through policies and training.
Sexual misconduct involving teachers and students remains a critical issue nationwide. The U.S. Department of Education enforces regulations designed to protect students and uphold professional standards within schools. Meanwhile, local law enforcement agencies, such as the Connecticut State Police, play a crucial role in investigating allegations and ensuring accountability.
This case follows other recent incidents involving educators accused of abusing their positions of trust, underscoring the importance of vigilance and prompt action when such allegations arise. Victims and families are encouraged to report suspicious behavior to authorities and seek support from organizations like the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), which provides resources and assistance to survivors of sexual assault.
As the legal process unfolds, the community of Meriden and the wider education system await further developments in this troubling case, which serves as a stark reminder of the responsibilities educators bear and the protections students deserve.
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