A former teacher at the STEM School Highlands Ranch has been sentenced to 14 years in prison after she pleaded guilty to the charges of sexual exploitation of a child and cybercrime, authorities said.
Tera Johnson-Swartz, 45, will be serving her time in the Colorado Department of Corrections after she pleaded guilty to the charges of sexual exploitation of a child and cybercrime.
According to the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, the detectives from the Special Victims Unit arrested Johnson-Swartz in February 2025. Johnson-Swartz had originally been charged with the offenses of kidnapping and contributing to the delinquency of a minor, which stemmed from an “inappropriate relationship with a student,” the sheriff’s office said.
The case stemmed from a “long investigation” conducted by the Special Victims Unit, which also involved the District Attorney’s Office, officials said.
“We are grateful for the tireless work of our Special Victims Unit and the dedication of the District Attorney’s Office in taking this case so seriously,” Douglas County Sheriff Darren Weekly said. “Their commitment ensures that those who prey on our most vulnerable…our children…are held fully accountable. Protecting our youth will always remain one of our highest priorities.”
District Attorney George Brauchler emphasized the seriousness of the crime and the breaking of trust.
“Douglas County has some of the finest teachers in Colorado. I know, because—like many parents in our community—I have entrusted my four kids to be taught by them. This warning is coming from the DA and a parent: if a teacher in our community exploits their position of trust with our kids for their own lascivious desires, we will seek to change their life forever.”
He went on to say, “We will work to make them a convicted felon, and we will try to take away their freedom. Here, this predator stated at her sentencing hearing that this conduct will not define who she is. I disagree. She is now a convicted sex offender and will live with that label for decades.”
Brauchler also added that this case was the fourth time his office has sought a felony sex offense conviction, and all of them have gone to prison.
There was a lack of information from authorities regarding the victim and the cybercrime charge.
The post Former ‘Teacher of the Year’ Finalist Sentenced to 14 Years for Sexual Abuse of Student appeared first on Where Is The Buzz | Breaking News, Entertainment, Exclusive Interviews & More.
