Former San Diego Teacher Sentenced for Sexual Crimes Against Students
A former educator in San Diego County has received a lengthy prison sentence for sexually assaulting two young boys in her classroom setting.
Details of the Case
Jacqueline Ma, a 36-year-old former teacher at Lincoln Acres Elementary School, was sentenced to 30 years to life in prison after pleading guilty to multiple charges, including two counts of forcible lewd acts on a child and one count of possessing child sexual abuse material. Her actions included grooming her victims through gifts and special attention, manipulating their trust.
Investigation and Arrest
Ma’s predatory behavior came to light when the mother of one victim discovered inappropriate messages exchanged between her son and Ma on a family tablet. Following this incident, the National City Police Department conducted an investigation, revealing that Ma had abused the boy over a period of three months, all while his parents believed he was engaged in an after-school basketball program.
In addition to the first victim, investigators found evidence that Ma had also groomed and assaulted a second victim, an 11-year-old boy, in 2020.
Prosecutor’s Remarks
“This defendant violated the trust she had with her students in the most extreme and traumatic way possible,” stated San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan. She emphasized the lasting impact on the victims, noting, “Her actions are despicable.”
Background of the Offender
Jacqueline Ma had been recognized as Teacher of the Year for the 2022-23 academic year, underscoring her positive reputation within the educational community. She earned her bachelor’s degree in biology and her master’s in education from UC San Diego, holding a teaching position in the National School District since 2013.
Prosecutors highlighted how Ma utilized her esteemed position to gain the trust of both parents and students, facilitating her manipulative behavior.
Impact on the Community
The case has left the National City community in shock as details of her crimes emerged. District Attorney Stephan expressed hope that the lengthy sentence would provide a sense of justice for the victims and their families, as well as healing for the community affected by these actions.
