Teacher accused of raping mentally challenged student

SHREVEPORT, LA (KSLA) - Disturbing allegations of an educator taking advantage of a mentally challenged student have led to an investigation and an arrest.

The 33-year-old teacher, Jeremy Pierce, is accused of sexual contact with a female student.

"She is mentally handicapped and has an IQ lower than 70," said Moore.

Caddo parish investigators say the abuse took place at Port City Christian Academy on Greenwood Road.

The school is located on the same property as Westview Christian Church.

Pierce was arrested and charged with sexual battery, prohibited sexual conduct between educator and student, and aggravated rape.

"The victim, who is 17-years-old, confided in some friends at a church camp in Alexandria, Louisiana about what happened," said Caddo Detective James Moore.

The aggravated rape charge that Pierce faces is a result of the girl's mental deficiency.

"There is a stipulation in the law to where if a person's IQ is under 70 then the offender can be charged with aggravated rape," said Moore.

Pierce's bond is set at $750,000.

Copyright 2013 KSLA. All rights reserved.