A scandal has emerged at South Mecklenburg High School after a teacher, 26-year-old Gabriela Cartaya-Neufeld, was arrested for allegedly having a sexual relationship with an 18-year-old male student. The incident occurred at Park Road Park and was discovered by the student’s mother using the Life360 family safety app. Prosecutors revealed that the mother became suspicious when her son missed rugby practice and tracked his location using the app, which led her to the park where she found the illicit act taking place in a car.
The teacher, who was a science instructor for ninth to twelfth-grade students, has been charged with five counts of felony sexual activity with a student by a teacher. The encounters reportedly took place multiple times since October in various locations, including the mother’s home, the teacher’s home, and in a car. Cartaya-Neufeld was arrested at the scene but has since been released on bail.
In response to the incident, the principal of South Mecklenburg High School assured the community that they take the matter seriously and that the safety and security of their students and staff are of utmost importance.
Prosecutors raised concerns about the student’s intentions to run away and requested electronic monitoring for Cartaya-Neufeld to prevent her from fleeing with the student. As the story continues to unfold, updates will be provided. In the meantime, authorities urge caution when dealing with the NC sex offender registry.
