Former high school teacher accused of rape pleads not guilty

FREMONT COUNTY, Idaho (KIFI) — Jessica Lawson, a former teacher at South Fremont High School, was in court for arraignment Wednesday morning. She is being charged with two counts of felony rape after allegedly having sex with a teenage boy. Lawson also faces two additional charges for dispensing alcohol and marijuana to the minor. She entered a not-guilty plea in Fremont County.

During her arraignment hearing, Judge Dunn gave Lawson an overview of her rights including the right to remain silent and the right to cross-examine her accusers.

Lawson is scheduled for pre-trial this summer after jury members are selected. In the meantime, the court is ordering her to remain within the 7th judicial district, to keep consistent contact with her attorney, and to abstain from using substances like alcohol, marijuana, or other drugs. These terms were in addition to a "no contact" order and GPS surveillance.

Lawson was arrested and booked into the Madison County jail in November. She posted a $250,000 bond. You can view our previous coverage of this case HERE.

Lawson's case was previously handled by Judge Steven Boyce. He has since recused himself from the case along with a few court clerks. Judge Stephen Dunn now presides over the case.