Pocatello teacher accused of sexual assault pleads not guilty

The Pocatello teacher accused of rape and lewd conduct against a former student pleaded not guilty at her arraignment in Bannock County Court Tuesday.

Tiffany Petersen, 46, entered a not guilty plea to both charges, each of which carries a maximum sentence of life in prison.

Since the case is sealed, in accordance with grand jury indictment rules, many of the specific details of the case and charges are unknown.

The Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25 teacher was placed on administrative leave by the district on Thursday.

Petersen is defended by attorney Shane Reichert.

In addition to the criminal charges, a civil lawsuit has been filed against Petersen and the district by the parents of the allegedly abused child.

The attorney for the parents, Reed Larsen, said that a notice of tort was sent to the school back in early 2018 and the lawsuit was filed in August of that year.

As with many details, the amount sought in damages is “privileged,” according to Larsen.