STROUDSBURG — A teacher, accused of having an inappropriate relationship with a student, is expected to head to trial in Monroe County.
Cynthia Hartopp, 28, of Stroudsburg waived her right to a preliminary hearing Monday. She was arrested last week.
Authorities believe she had sexual contact with a 16-year-old boy who was one of her students at East Stroudsburg North High School.
Prosecutors say the sexual assault charge Hartopp faces is now harsher due to a recent amendment to the law.
“Allegations like this are disturbing in any case and, again, I think that’s the reason for the statute, is that students can be safe. And also teachers are in a position of authority as well as a position of trust over their students,” said Assistant District Attorney Michael Rakaczewski.
Hartopp was placed on leave from her job in the East Stroudsburg Area School District as soon as the accusations came to light.
