http://www.tennessean.com/article/20091130/GALLATIN01/91130095/2138/Teacher+charged+with+vandalizing+Portland+schoolAn elementary school teacher was charged Monday, Nov. 30 with allegedly vandalizing Portland East Middle School.
Brenda Sue Rawls, 50, is accused of using sardine juice, condoms and lubricant to vandalize a mini-fridge, a teacher’s desk and three lockers, according to the affidavit filed in Sumner County General Sessions Court. The incident is alleged to have occurred on Aug. 16.
According to Sumner County Sheriff Bob Barker, the vandalism was allegedly committed in retaliation against a teacher that made comments about Rawls.
Rawls is charged with vandalism under $500, contributing to the delinquency of a minor and criminal trespassing.
Authorities say a seventh grader assisted with the vandalism. After the incident, Rawls and the student allegedly discussed what they had done and returned to the school with air fresheners in an attempt to clean up the lockers, according to the affidavit.
Rawls allegedly admitted to purchasing the sardines, condoms, lubricants and air freshener used in the incident as well as using her key to allow the student into the building, but denies involvement of the vandalism, according to the affidavit.
The total damage, including three damaged textbooks, is estimated at $250.
Rawls, who had been a teacher a Portland East, was transferred to Watt Hardison Elementary on July 31.
Her bond was set at $1,000. She is scheduled to appear in Sumner County General Sessions Court on Dec. 16.