Tennessee Teacher Gets Probation in Sex Case - Updated

(Tiptonville, Tennessee) On Tuesday of this week, Tracy Hinson pleaded no contest to statutory rape of a 16-year-old boy which effectively is the same as a guilty plea.

As a result, Hinson was sentenced to two years judicial diversion probation.

The Hinson case has displayed some twists and turns. She initially was accused of contributing to the delinquency of a minor but that charge was dismissed while the investigation continued. Then, at some point, she was charged with statutory rape which Hinson essentially admitted.

In any event, Hinson walks away with probation. It's not known whether she will be required to register as a sex offender or if she will lose her teaching position.



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Tennessee Teacher Arrested in Student Sex Case
[Previous 5/10/08 post]
(Tiptonville, Tennessee) A 38-year-old chemistry and geometry teacher at Lake County High School, Tracy Hinson, has been arrested for allegedly engaging in an inappropriate relationship with a 16-year-old boy.

Hinson faces a charge of contributing to the delinquency of a minor.

She was charged Thursday, May 8, by Lake County Sheriff's Investigator Joe Vernon. Vernon declined to elaborate on the charge, saying that the case is still under investigation.

According to Lake County School System spokesman, Joey Hassell, Hinson has been suspended without pay.

Hinson, married with children, has a court appearance scheduled for May 14.


[Update 05/15/08]

Charges against Hinson have been dismissed "without prejudice" which means that they may be reinstated at some future date. Hinson remains suspended from her job while the school system and the sheriff's department continue to investigate.