Port Charlotte teacher arrested for sexual activity with student on campus

PORT CHARLOTTE - A high school teacher is facing criminal charges after being accused of inappropriate conduct with a student.

Detectives say they learned Monday about possible sexual activity between a teacher and a student at Port Charlotte High School.

The Charlotte County Sheriff's Office says 37-year-old Heather Mashburn-Smith had sex on campus with a 17-year-old student. Investigators say it happened twice in December.

“The actions of this individual are a direct violation of the duty every educator owes to students and families. We will not tolerate anything that compromises student safety," said Superintendent of Schools Mark Vianello. "This individual has been placed on administrative leave as we work closely with law enforcement and pursue full accountability. Our focus remains on protecting our students and responding decisively."

Mashburn-Smith was arrested and booked into the Charlotte County Jail. She has been charged with unlawful activity with certain minors.

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