Arkansas Teacher Accused of Sex with Boy

(Malvern, Arkansas) A 35-year-old substitute teacher at Malvern High School, Marsha Henderson, turned herself in to police to face charges that she had sexual relations with a 16-year-old male student. Also, allegations of drug usage and harassment have surfaced with regard to the relationship. The boy's father, Gary Bell, stated that his son is extremely disturbed by the situation and has left home.

A spokesperson for the Malvern Police Department said Henderson and the boy met at the school and subsequently had sexual intercourse. At first, Henderson denied the accusations but changed her tune when police let her listen to some recorded telephone messages she left for the boy. Her response was a simple, "Damn!"

Notably, the age of consent in Arkansas is 16, however, sexual relationships between an authority figure and a student are illegal. It's not clear when Henderson will see a judge.

Malvern is approximately 35 miles southwest of Little Rock in Hot Spring County.


[Update 01/26/07]

Henderson was in court this week and vehemently denied the accusations. It's also reported that her first name is Marcia, not Marsha. Her next court appearance is scheduled for April. Apparently, the delay in the case is caused by new evidence being presented which requires evaluation by the crime lab.


[Update 05/09/07]

Charges dropped. Prosecutor stated that there wasn't enough evidence to go to trial.