Sex exploitation trial of former Washington High teacher starts Monday

Jury selection will start Monday in the sexual exploitation trial of a former Washington High School teacher.

Heather Adams, 42, a former chemistry teacher, is charged with one count of sexual exploitation by a school employee, an aggravated misdemeanor. She is accused of having sex with an 18-year-old student May 6.

According to a criminal complaint, police responded to a report of a suspicious vehicle in the 300 block of 28th Street Dr. SE  and found a “naked 18-year-old male” in the front seat of an SUV and a woman, identified as Adams, who was also “naked and hiding in the back seat.” Both admitted they were engaged in sexual activity, according to the complaint.

The trial is expected to last four days in Linn County Associate District Court.

Al Willett, Adams' attorney, indicated in a hearing Friday that Adams will testify next week. She is claiming intoxication as her defense. Adams will have to prove her intoxication prevented her from forming specific intent to commit the crime.

Sixth Judicial Associate District Judge Casey Jones said he would take a deposition of a medical expert for the defense under advisement and make a ruling on Monday whether parts of the testimony will be redacted as requested by the state.

Adams, who was a chemistry teacher for 18 years, resigned for "personal reasons" after her arrest.

Adams' teaching license is valid until 2020, according to the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners website.

Darcy Lane, attorney/investigator for the board, said Friday she couldn't say if there is a complaint filed against Adams because those aren't made public until the board sets a hearing. In some cases, if it involves criminal charges the board will delay action until the charges are resolved.

If convicted, Adams faces two years in jail and would be listed on the state's sex offender registry.