Louisiana Teacher Accused of Kidnapping Girl

(Monroe, Louisiana) A 27-year-old physical education teacher at West Ridge Middle School, Jamie Lynn Avant, has been accused of kidnapping a 15-year-old female student, taking her to a secluded rural spot, and threatening her life with a gun to her head while stating, "If I can't have you, no one can."

The victim said she begged for her life, and Avant relented and drove her back to a subdivision in West Monroe after she promised not to tell anyone about the incident.

According to the arrest affidavit, the victim told deputies that Avant was making sexual advances that were rejected.

The victim's parents told deputies they did not give their daughter permission to go with Avant.

Avant has been charged with false imprisonment with a deadly weapon. She has been suspended from her teaching position. It should be noted, however, that the Ouachita School Board had previously decided to terminate Avant, which was pending, for poor job performance.

Avant was booked into custody at the Ouachita Correctional Center with bond set at $25,000. Arraignment has been scheduled for July 20.

Although serious allegations have been aired, readers should keep in mind that high school kids sometimes make stuff up.