The former Estill County High School teacher arrested after failing to report that her boyfriend tried to contact a student for sex now faces additional charges including child abuse.
Sherry Murphy, 39, of Irvine, was charged with child abuse and intimidating a participant in the legal process, after allegedly punching a female juvenile in the mouth, causing injuries to the victim. Murphy, according to Kentucky State Police, is accused of forcing the juvenile to lie to social services investigators and school officials about the attack, which occurred at Murphy’s home.
Earlier this month, Kentucky State Police said 35-year-old Torstein Torsteinson, of Irvine, became involved in a relationship with Murphy in order to contact a student for sex. Torsteinson, according to his arrest citation, unsuccessfully tried to contact the student via Facebook Messenger in September 2018.
Torsteinson then began a relationship with Murphy in order to gain access to the student, which he did. Police say Murphy knew about Torsteinson’s September attempt to contact the student for sex, but took no action. After Torsteinson eventually made contact with the student, he instructed the victim to delete the messages he previously sent. Again, Murphy knew of this activity and did nothing. Murphy’s arrest citation says she knew of at least three other students Torsteinson tried to contact for sex.
Both suspects were arrested and charged with unlawful transaction with a minor and tampering with physical evidence, with Murphy also charged with failure to report child abuse.
Torsteinson was lodged in Three Forks Detention Center. Murphy, who resigned her position, remains on home incarceration after suffering a broken back. She posted a $10,000 unsecured bond.
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com or 270-259-6000
