Wisconsin Teacher Busted for Cocaine in School Bathroom

Laurie Laubenstein, a 58-year-old elementary school teacher in New London, Wisconsin, faces charges for cocaine possession. The arrest occurred on February 12, following a tip to authorities regarding her alleged drug use within the school premises.

Investigators were informed of Laubenstein frequently entering the bathroom with her purse, and a tipster reported finding bloody tissues and white powder. A school resource officer later found white powder in the classroom bathroom, which tested positive for cocaine. A subsequent search found cocaine in Laubenstein's purse and coat pocket.

During police interviews, Laubenstein admitted to starting cocaine use in August and confirmed using the drug at work on the day of her arrest, including in classroom and teacher's lounge bathrooms. She stated she always cleaned up and never intended to endanger students.

The school district notified parents about the arrest, emphasizing that students were not endangered. Laubenstein, facing her first offense, could receive up to a year in prison and a $5,000 fine, with potential additional penalties due to the school's drug-free zone status. Her court appearance is scheduled for March 17.