SANTA ROSA COUNTY

SHERIFFS OFFICE

Sheriff Wendell Hall

Two Teachers Arrested for Unlawful Sexual Activity

Two Santa Rosa County teachers were arrested today stemming from an investigation into unlawful sexual activity with minors. The investigation was initiated on July 28, 2009 after an anonymous letter was sent to the Santa Rosa County School District alleging sexual relationships between two Jay High School teachers and male juveniles. The letter was given to the Santa Rosa County Sheriff's Office for investigation. Interviews were conducted with the alleged victims in the case. Two victims alleged that they were involved in sexual activity with Watson at her residence and the residence of Burkett between the months of July and October 2007. One other victim alleged that he was involved in sexual activity with Burkett at her residence and the residence of Watson between the months of July and October 2007. Both of the suspects were questioned by investigators and they both admitted to the unlawful sexual activity. Warrants were issued for their arrest by a Circuit Court Judge. Watson and Burkett turned themselves in at the Santa Rosa County Jail on the afternoon of August 6, 2009 . Both posted a bond of $50,000.00 and were released on GPS. Their charges are listed below. Photographs of the suspects are attached to this email.

SUSPECT #1:

April Burford Watson, W/F, 33 years old

4000 Block of Matt Jernigan Road , Jay , FL  

Charges:

Unlawful Sexual Activity with a Minor, 3 counts, 2 nd degree felony

SUSPECT #2:

Ashley Elenea Burkett, W/F, 31 years old

14000 Block of Highway 89, Jay , FL

Charges:

Unlawful Sexual Activity with a Minor, 3 counts, 2 nd degree felony

Press Release By:

Sgt. Scott Haines

Media Relations Unit

(850) 981-2136 or shaines@srso.net