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Charlotte teacher had inappropriate relationship with student, CMPD says

Olivia Dennis, a teacher at Olympic High School, is accused of having an inappropriate sexual relationship with a student.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A teacher at Olympic High School is charged with having sex with a student, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police said. 

A school resource officer at Olympic was notified about a potentially inappropriate relationship involving a teacher and student on May 20, according to CMPD. The officer immediately contacted the police, who launched an investigation. 

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The suspect, 28-year-old Olivia Dennis, was charged with three counts of sexual activity with a student for an alleged relationship with an 18-year-old male student. Investigators said none of the alleged acts happened at the school. 

Dennis is expected to appear in court on Tuesday. 

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools confirmed that Dennis is suspended with pay pending the outcome of the investigation. Employment records show that Dennis has been employed by CMS since 2022.

The following message was sent to the families of Olympic High students: 

"Good Afternoon Olympic High School Staff, this is Principal Jones with an important message. We are aware of an alleged inappropriate relationship between a staff member and a student at Olympic. I am not able to disclose any specific details, but know that I am working with district leadership and law enforcement to ensure a resolution. Our students are the most important part of our school community, and any actions by staff that disrupts their learning or jeopardizes their well-being will not be tolerated. You will likely see reports on the news and hear rumors regarding this incident. Out of respect for the student and staff member involved, please refrain from repeating these rumors. Thank you for your understanding, support and cooperation."

Anyone with information about this case is asked to call Charlotte Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.

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Note: WCNC instituted a policy in March 2021 regarding the broadcast or posting of mugshots.  

WCNC will only air or post a mugshot if the person has been formally charged with a crime and in a few other cases. The exceptions include: If it appears the person could be a danger to themselves or others or if they are wanted by authorities; to differentiate between people with a common name; if the photos could encourage more victims to come forward. The news-editorial leadership may also decide to use a mugshot based on the severity of the crime(s) committed and/or the level of public interest in the crime and ensuing criminal proceedings. 

WCNC Charlotte is showing the mugshot of the suspect because of her role as a public school teacher. 

   

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