Louisiana teacher child abuse investigation has widened after authorities confirmed a second arrest linked to a case involving a fifth-grade teacher already facing multiple serious charges tied to alleged child sexual abuse.
The case centers on Marisa Noel, a teacher who was first taken into custody after a two-month investigation into her conduct with a student at Teche Elementary School in Breaux Bridge.
Investigators say the original allegations involved indecent behavior with a juvenile and the use of electronic communication to solicit a minor. As the investigation progressed, prosecutors added significantly more serious charges, including additional counts of indecent behavior with juveniles, allegations involving child sexual abuse material, and a rape charge. Authorities also confirmed that a second victim was later identified, which expanded the scope of the case and led to further legal action.
Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill announced that a second person, Cortney Burleigh, 37, was arrested the following day as part of the same investigation. Officials say Burleigh does not work at the school where Noel was employed but is believed to be connected to the broader inquiry involving the alleged exploitation of a child under 13. She faces multiple felony charges, including indecent behavior with juveniles as an accessory after the fact, cruelty to juveniles, obstruction of justice, and additional related offenses. Prosecutors allege her involvement centers on actions that may have supported or interfered with the investigation.
Authorities have stressed that the case remains active and ongoing, with investigators continuing to review evidence and follow potential leads. Attorney General Murrill said law enforcement agencies across Louisiana are working together to ensure accountability for anyone involved, directly or indirectly, in the alleged abuse or any attempt to conceal it. Officials have not ruled out further arrests as the investigation continues to develop.
Noel remains in custody at St. Martin Parish Correctional Center as she faces an expanded list of charges that now includes multiple counts tied to sexual exploitation of a minor, unlawful electronic communication, harassment, possession of child sexual abuse material, and a rape allegation. The case, which began with a focused school investigation, has now evolved into a wider criminal probe involving multiple suspects and victims, with prosecutors indicating that more developments may still emerge as evidence is analyzed.
