Omaha, Nebraska – A substitute teacher in Omaha, Erin Ward, 45, was arrested on April 13 after being discovered undressed in a car with a 17-year-old student, according to the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office. The incident unfolded when deputies responded to a call about a suspicious vehicle parked on a dead-end street near the 10200th block of North 189th St.
Upon arrival, deputies encountered a Gray 2015 Honda Pilot with two individuals inside. One of the occupants hurriedly moved to the driver’s seat and drove off, eventually crashing a couple of blocks away and fleeing on foot in the nude. The other person in the vehicle was identified as Erin Ward, who was reportedly in the process of getting dressed in the backseat.
Ward, who confirmed her role as a substitute teacher at OPS Burke High School and two other local schools, admitted to engaging in sexual activity with the 17-year-old male student from Burke High School. The vehicle involved in the incident belonged to Ward and her spouse. The 17-year-old student, who was found nearby wearing minimal clothing, received medical attention following the crash and his attempt to escape on foot.
Ward was taken into custody and charged with one count of felony sexual abuse by a school employee. She was transported to the Douglas County Department of Corrections. Authorities encouraged anyone with relevant information about Ward to contact the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office. The victim’s identity has been withheld due to his age.
For those impacted by sexual abuse, resources such as the Crisis Text Line are available for support. The incident involving Ward, a former employee of the Omaha Public Schools, highlights the importance of vigilance and safeguarding vulnerable populations within educational institutions.