Published: August 17, 2009 09:51 pm      

Former OF coach Burton jailed

Former Orangefield junior high school teacher and coach, Jennifer Lea Burton, 40, turned herself into the Orange County Jail following a hearing Monday afternoon.

Recent information surfaced last week accusing Burton of continuing sexual relations with a 14-year-old former student. Burton and the girl had allegedly met at various locations including an Orange residence and a Winnie motel, according to sources close to the family.

As a result, Burton — along with her attorney, Larry Hunter — ap-peared before Judge Pat Clark of the 128th District Court Monday afternoon for a “show cause” hearing, at which a motion for insufficient bond was made. Bonds were then re-set at $30,000 each on the six charges against her.

The cases covered a period from September 2008 through November 2008. Burton was working as a teacher/coach at Orangefield Junior High School; the victim was a student of the same school.

On July 31, Burton announced she would see a trial. The state had offered Burton a five-year plea deal, but Hunter said the offer was “unacceptable.” However, in light of the new allegations, Burton may accept a plea bargain agreement later this week.

Burton initially turned herself into the Orange County Jail following the original indictment in April. Bond was then set at $15,000 on each count of sexual assault and $10,000 on each count of improper relationship. She posted bond and had remained out of jail.

Orangefield Independent School District officials placed Burton on leave on March 30 after learning of the matter and of a criminal investigation being initiated.

Burton is a 1987 graduate of Orangefield High School and has been teaching within the district since 2003. As part of her teaching job, she coached volleyball, basketball and track, according to Orange Leader archives.



Debby Schamber is a reporter for the Orange Leader. She can be reached at 409-883-3571 ext. 2609 or at dschamber@orangeleader.com.