A New Jersey teacher was arrested after allegedly sending sexual text messages to a 13-year-old former student.
Lorri A. Willis, 45, a teacher at Black River Middle School in Chester Township, N.J., has been charged with one count of endangering the welfare of a child and one count of enticing, according to the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office.
Prosecutors said Willis has been suspended from her teaching duties.
It is unclear whether Willis has entered a plea or retained an attorney.
According to an affidavit of probable cause obtained by PEOPLE, Willis allegedly had sexual discussions via text messages and Snapchat between June 2024 and October 2025.
Chester police spoke with the alleged victim, who stated in the affidavit that Willis provided a picture of her breasts while wearing a bra. She also allegedly offered the student items, including a ring, according to investigators.
Willis teaches science at Chester School District, according to their website.
“The District was recently notified by law enforcement that a Black River Middle School staff member has been arrested,” Superintendent William Kochis stated in a letter to district families. “We treat any claims of inappropriate behavior by a staff member very seriously. There is currently no indication of a risk or hazard to the District.
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual abuse, text “STRENGTH” to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741 to speak with a certified crisis counselor.
