Kiara Lee, a 26-year-old crossing guard in Darby, Pennsylvania, has been arrested for allegedly providing middle school students with vapes and marijuana edibles, and even smoking weed with them.
Lee, who worked near Penn Wood Middle School, was taken into custody on Tuesday by Delaware County police after a student witness reported her actions.
Incident Details
Lee was seen on multiple occasions handing out electronic cigarettes and marijuana edibles to at least two students. One student revealed to school officials that they had been frequently smoking weed with Lee. This prompted another student to come forward, and a student’s guardian confirmed Lee’s actions to the police.
Police and Community Reaction
Darby Borough Chief Joseph Gabe condemned Lee’s behavior, stressing that giving narcotics to minors, even marijuana, is unacceptable. Delaware County District Attorney Stollsteimer also expressed dismay, emphasizing that crossing guards are trusted with the safety of children and that abusing this trust is deeply disturbing.
Legal Consequences
Lee faces serious charges, including two felony counts of drug possession with intent to deliver, two misdemeanor counts of corruption of a minor, and two misdemeanor counts of marijuana possession. She is currently held in Delaware County jail on a $20,000 bail, which she has been unable to post. Her preliminary hearing is scheduled for June 14.
Community Outrage
Parents in the community were outraged by Lee’s actions. Maya Bryant, a parent, described it as “insane” that a borough employee would give drugs to children. Another parent, Malekka Dade, called the situation “utterly disgusting,” underscoring the community’s shock and disapproval.
This incident underscores the critical importance of trust and safety in roles responsible for the welfare of children.