Roosevelt High Spanish Teacher Faces 6 Felony Counts Of Sex With Teenage Students

LOS ANGELES (CBS) — A 42-year-old Roosevelt High School Spanish teacher has been charged with six felony counts of unlawful sexual intercourse.

Gabriela Cortez allegedly engaged in sexual relationships with two students, according to Deputy District Attorney Hyunah Suh. At her arraignment Thursday afternoon, Cortez pleaded not guilty.

Cortez allegedly had relationships with the students between January 2009 and November 2010, primarily in her home when the male victims, who are now adults, were 16 and 17.

The investigation began on Feb. 15, when authorities were contacted by one of the men, who told a Montebello police lieutenant he wanted to get his relationship with the teacher off his chest. That allegation triggered an investigation that led to the second victim.

Cortez was placed on leave following her arrest. She is free on bail.

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