Port Hope teacher expected to plead guilty to sex crimes in August
Cobourg Courthouse. Photo by: Dan Jones, Northumberland 89.7 FM, LJI
By: Dan Jones, Northumberland 89.7 FM, Local Journalism Initiative.
WARNING: THIS STORY CONTAINS DISTRUBING CONTENT
A Port Hope elementary school teacher is expected to plead guilty to sexual crimes involving children.
Kelly-Anne Jennings, who is on leave as a Grade 8 teacher is accused of 18 crimes, including making child pornography and sexual assault of a minor under the age of 14.
Her matter was heard in a Cobourg court Wednesday morning. It was adjourned to August 15 for a plea hearing.
Crown prosecutor JulieAnn Barrett confirms that a guilty plea will be entered and that sentencing will take place.
Barrett would not say whether any charges are being dismissed, stating there will be a resolution to all charges in August. It is unclear what charges Jennings will plead guilty to.
As for sentencing, Barrett declined to address the matter, saying her office is working with defence counsel on a joint submission to be presented.
Jennings did not appear in person or via video Wednesday. Her legal representation, a paralegal, only asked for an adjournment.
Jennings was arrested last August in what investigators allege that a boy came forward accusing her of inappropriate touching on a school trip. Three other minors accuse her in complaints as well. The incidents are alleged to have occurred between June 2022 and April 2024 all taking place in the Port Hope area.
She is also accused of communicating with the complainants via social media. Other charges include luring a person under the age of 16 via telecommunications, distribution of child pornography and invitation to sexual touching for a person under the age of 16.
A few months after her initial arrest, Jennings was apprehended again for failing to abide by bail conditions, as she is accused of visiting public parks in Peterborough and Whitby. A publication ban is in effect to protect the identities of the children.
