LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY – A fifth-grade math teacher is facing serious criminal charges after allegedly crossing a line that has shocked the community. Sydnee Graf, 36, was supposed to be educating her students during a virtual school day, but police say she was instead grooming a child under the age of 12.
Virtual Predator
The incident occurred during a "non-traditional workday," a time when classes are held virtually and students interact with teachers online. According to the arrest citation, Graf engaged in sexual conversations with the fifth-grade student during this instructional time.
Detectives reviewed screenshots and video recordings of the messages, which displayed images of the suspect and her name, Sydnee Graf, clearly in the top left corner.
Disturbing Messages
The content of the messages was explicitly graphic. The citation alleges that the conversations included discussions of oral sodomy. In one particularly disturbing text, the teacher allegedly wrote, "I really need to taste that d--- Fr Fr".
Caught in the Act
The digital abuse turned physical when Graf allegedly made arrangements to meet the juvenile in person on Monday, December 15. However, police were waiting. Graf was apprehended while driving to the area of the juvenile's residence to pick him up.
The Aftermath
After being read her Miranda rights, Graf admitted to the conversations. She has been charged with procuring or promoting the use of a minor by electronic means.
While she pleaded not guilty during her arraignment and is being held on a $100,000 cash bond, the school principal has confirmed she will be reassigned and will not have contact with students during the investigation.
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