UPDATE: Henry School District teacher resigns after being charged with sex crimes involving student

March 6, 2023

Mike Tanner

WATERTOWN, S.D.–An English teacher in the Henry School District has resigned after being charged with sex crimes against a 16 year-old male student.

Forty one year-old Shanna Ries of Watertown was arrested Sunday for Sexual Contact with a Child Under 18, and Sexual Exploitation of a Minor.

Both are Class 6 Felonies punishable by up to two years in prison and $4,000 in fines.

Henry School District Superintendent Todd Obele released the following statement to KWAT Radio News Monday night:

“On Sunday, March 5, 2023, Henry School was informed by the Codington County Sheriff Department that a staff member admitted to inappropriate activities with a student in the Henry School District. We are not aware of any other incidents. The Henry School District is cooperating with law enforcement in the ongoing investigation. The Staff Member has agreed to resign effective immediately, which has been accepted by the board of Education. We want to provide a safe learning environment for all students. We are unable to comment further on the student or the faculty member at this time.”

The case was investigated by Watertown police with assistance from the Codington County Sheriff’s Department. Police say additional charges are pending.