Editor's Note: This story has been updated to reflect that Freed was suspended without pay in July of 2022.
WILLIAMSPORT, LYCOMING COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — A former principal has been found not guilty of the charges of sexual assault after being accused of having a relationship with a student.
According to court officials, after a four-day trial, Roger Weaver Freed, of Cogan Station, was found not guilty on the following charges:
Corruption of a minor
School intercourse and sexual contact with a student
Furnishing liquor to a minor
Sexual assault
Aggravated assault without consent
As stated in the affidavit, in June 2022, the student informed police of a relationship with Freed, claiming it had turned sexual when they were a junior in high school and continued for seven years until April 2022.
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Freed was a principal at Williamsport Area School District (WASD). When the allegations came out, the school district had suspended Freed from his position without pay.
A spokesperson for the WASD stated the following to 28/22 News;
"The Williamsport Area School District acknowledges the court’s decision to acquit former Williamsport Area High School principal Dr. Roger Freed of all charges. We recognize that this situation has been a long, difficult and emotional process to endure and has deeply affected many members of our school community.
While the court has rendered its decision, the district must now complete its own internal review and due diligence in accordance with our established policies and procedures. At this time, Dr. Freed will not be returning to the district. This process ensures that we carefully and thoughtfully assess all relevant factors before making any final personnel decisions."
Williamsport Area School District
