Oakdale, MN — Ann Margaret Bacon,

24-year-old special education teacher at Tartan High School in Oakdale, has been charged with felony third-degree criminal sexual conduct. The charges stem from allegations that Bacon engaged in a sexual relationship with an 18-year-old student shortly before his graduation last year. The Ramsey County District Court issued a warrant for Bacon’s arrest on Monday.

According to the criminal complaint, Bacon initially claimed the relationship began in July, after the student had graduated. However, after police presented photos of Bacon and the student together on May 8 at a Vadnais Heights hotel, she revised her statement. Bacon, who has since resigned from her position, has denied accusations of purchasing alcohol for minors.

Background and Initial Allegations

Bacon, who was employed as a special education teacher at Tartan High since August 2022, previously worked as a paraprofessional during the 2021-2022 school year. Her resignation came on the same day that police interviewed her about the allegations.

The allegations surfaced on February 6 when a report was made to the Tartan administration and a school resource officer. The report claimed Bacon had a sexual relationship with the student and provided alcohol to minors. Witnesses reported that Bacon had been acting inappropriately and providing alcohol to the student and his friends. They also described sexually explicit communications and photos found on the student’s phone, including images from the Vadnais Heights hotel.

School Response and Investigation

The school received a tip about Bacon’s conduct on July 9, 2023. A district official contacted the tipster but received no response. Principal Bethany DeCent reached out to Bacon two days later, but Bacon denied any inappropriate behavior. No mandatory report was made to the police at that time, and the school took no further action.

Witness A made another report to the school on February 5, expressing concern that Bacon, still employed at the school, might be in a position to access vulnerable students. Following this, the principal contacted the witness again and planned to notify the school resource officer.

Police Findings and Evidence

Hotel records reveal that Bacon rented rooms at the Vadnais Heights hotel on May 8, June 4, June 11, and July 4, all for single-night stays. During her interview, Bacon admitted to the sexual relationship but insisted it began after the student’s graduation. She claimed they ceased their relationship in July and are now just friends.

Further investigation has led to the seizure of electronic devices from both Bacon and the student, which are being examined for forensic evidence.

School’s Commitment to Safety

Tartan Principal Bethany DeCent notified families and staff of Bacon’s resignation and the ongoing investigation via email. The message emphasized the school’s commitment to student safety and its full cooperation with law enforcement.

The case highlights the critical importance of safeguarding students and ensuring that any allegations of misconduct are promptly and thoroughly investigated. The legal process will determine the full extent of Bacon’s actions and any further consequences.