Port Hope teacher accused of sex crimes on students in talks to plead guilty

A Grade 8 teacher accused of multiple sexual offences involving students may plead guilty before the case ever goes to trial, an Ontario court has heard.

Kelly-Anne Jennings, who is on unpaid leave from her job at St. Anthony Catholic Elementary School in Port Hope, Ont., faces 18 sex crime charges, including sexual assault on a boy under 14. According to court records, Jennings, 40, is accused of making child pornography and distributing sexually explicit material to a minor. The alleged offences took place between June 2022 and April 2024 in Port Hope, part of Northumberland County, east of Toronto.

During a brief hearing in nearby Cobourg, a paralegal representing Jennings’ lawyer, Dean Embry, informed the court that the defence team and Crown prosecutors are in discussions for the accused to enter a guilty plea. It remains unclear whether Jennings plans to plead guilty to all or only some of the charges, which include luring, sexual interference, and invitation to sexual touching. Jennings did not appear in court, and her lawyer did not provide a statement.

Court records reveal that four minors, whose identities are protected by a publication ban, are named as alleged victims. Police stated that the accused communicated with the complainants through social media platforms such as Snapchat.

Jennings was initially charged last August after a male student disclosed inappropriate physical contact with a teacher during a class trip. Subsequently, three more complainants came forward, leading to additional charges.

Stephen O’Sullivan, director of education at the Peterborough Victoria Northumberland and Clarington Catholic District School Board, confirmed that Jennings had been employed at St. Anthony since 2016. Following her arrest, she was placed on administrative leave and restricted from visiting board properties or interacting with students.

As of now, there has been no change in Jennings’ status, according to school board spokesperson Galen Eagle. She will remain on unpaid leave throughout the court proceedings. The Ontario Court of Justice in Cobourg has not provided a date for the next court appearance.

The case continues to unfold, with the possibility of Jennings entering a guilty plea looming. The allegations have sent shockwaves through the community, prompting reflection on the safety and well-being of students in educational settings. The outcome of the case will undoubtedly have lasting implications for all parties involved.