Los Angeles County District Attorney Gascón Announces Charges Against Middle School Teacher for Inappropriate Intercourse with a Minor

Middle school teacher Colleen Jo Matarico is accused of engaging in lewd conduct with an underage student from 2023 to 2024

November 9, 2024 – LOS ANGELES, CA – Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón announced Friday: Middle school teacher Colleen Jo Matarico (pictured) is accused of sexually abusing a male student between the ages of 13 and 14 from 2023 to 2024.

“The accusations against Ms. Matarico are deeply disturbing and undermine the trust placed in her by students, their families and the entire community.” District Attorney Gascón said:. “I want to commend the young victim’s bravery and decision to report the abuse. Our office and investigators are also working to identify other possible victims. The office will seek justice for the victim and those affected by Matarico’s actions.”

Colleen Jo Matarico, 43, is charged with five felony counts of a child under 14 in case 24CJCF06908; two counts of lewd acts on a child aged 14 or 15; and one count of supplying a controlled substance to a minor.

It is also alleged that the victim was particularly vulnerable and that Matarico committed the crimes by taking advantage of his position of trust and confidence as a teacher. It is also claimed that Matarico showed no remorse when committing the crime.

Matarico is expected to be arraigned on November 12 in Department 30 of the Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center.

Matarico is accused of allegedly engaging in an inappropriate relationship with the underage student from 2023 to 2024. Matarico is also accused of providing marijuana to the underage student.

Matarico is being held on $590,000 bail. If convicted, Matarico faces a maximum sentence of 20 years and four months in state prison.

Other victims or anyone with information is encouraged to call Detective Hess at (213) 473-0561. Those wishing to remain anonymous can call LA Regional Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477.

The case is being prosecuted by LADA’s Sex Crimes Section and investigated by the Los Angeles Police Department Juvenile Division.

Source and photo: Los Angeles County District Attorney

Relating to: 43-Year-Old Female Teacher Arrested for Child Molestation, Los Angeles Detectives Searching for More Sexual Assault Victims