1022/A middle school teacher in California is under criminal investigation after detectives, while looking into a separate case, reportedly discovered a video of her engaging in sexual activity with a former teenage student.
On Monday, September 10, Soledad Police detectives took Marina Ramirez Rico, 34, into custody on charges related to engaging in sexual activity with a 15-year-old male former student, according to a statement from Soledad Police.
Detectives reportedly discovered a video of the two engaging in sexual activity while looking into another case, according to the release.
Authorities reported that they were carrying out a search warrant at Rico’s residence as part of an investigation into alleged weapons, according to local sources ABC 13 and KSBW.
The reported sexual abuse occurred while Rico was teaching at Soledad High School, and the victim was a student at that time.
Rico has taken on the role of a teacher at Main Street Middle School in Soledad, as reported by police.
The school administration was promptly informed by detectives. “Authorities implemented safety measures to protect students,” police stated.
Detectives apprehended Rico and discovered additional evidence related to the crime during the arrest, according to police.
Authorities reported that she was booked into Monterey County Jail on several charges involving sexual relations with a minor.
According to online jail records, KSBW reports that she faces five counts related to sexual conduct with a minor. She got out of jail after paying $50,000 in bail.
Following her arrest, Rico has been put on administrative leave, according to the superintendent of Soledad Unified School District, as reported by local outlet KION.
The superintendent has yet to reply to PEOPLE’s request for comment.
The Soledad Police have not yet replied to PEOPLE’s inquiry regarding the reported weapons investigation.
Soledad Police are seeking information regarding this case. If you have any details or know someone who may have had inappropriate contact with Rico, please reach out to Detective Lozano at 831-223-5164.