(Mason City, Iowa) Jodi Lynn Barrus, 33, was found not guilty by a Wright County jury speeding through deliberations in less than an hour. It seems that her accuser, an 18-year-old male, couldn't get his story straight. "Inconsistencies" in the victim's testimony led to the verdict.
The teen's history of making up stories was the lynchpin of the defense's case.Sadly, teachers are automatically in the lurch when accusations of sexual impropriety emerge. They must be vigilant in protecting themselves from false charges.
In closing arguments, defense attorney Derek Johnson pointed out 50 inconsistencies in the teen's statements to police, friends and testimony in court.
Barrus said the ordeal will change the way she deals with students in the future.
"For me, I felt like I was a very friendly teacher. But now, I think you completely have to draw yourself away from kids, knowing that this type of incident can happen at any time. Yeah, I think it changes you completely as a person and as a teacher."
Barrus is understandably angered and has threatened lawsuits against school employees.
Iowa Teacher Accused of Sexually Exploiting Boy
[Previous 3/26/10 post]
(Belmond, Iowa) A teacher at Belmond-Klemme High School, Jodi Lynn Barrus, has been accused of inappropriate relations with a male student. She has been charged with sexual exploitation by a school employee.
According to Wright County Sheriff Paul Schultz, Barrus formerly taught at a school in Pocatello, Idaho.
Schultz says Barrus turned herself into the sheriff's office with her attorney on Wednesday. Schultz says the school had already put her on administrative leave.Barrus was booked into custody at the Wright County Jail and later released on $10,000 bond.
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