Lindsey Rose Schneeberger, Pine Island Middle School Teacher Arrested and Charged with Sexual Assault of 14-Year-Old Female Student

Rochester, MN – Lindsey Rose Schneeberger, a 24-year-old former teacher and coach, has been arrested and charged with sexually assaulting a 14-year-old student. The arrest, made by the Rochester Police Department, follows allegations that Schneeberger engaged in sexual acts with the teenager at her Rochester residence.

Schneeberger, who previously worked as a volleyball coach and physical education teacher at Pine Island Middle School, is accused of crossing the boundaries of trust and authority. The incidents are said to have occurred between March 1, 2023, and May 15, 2023, shocking both the community and the school district.

The case came to light when a family member discovered concerning text messages exchanged between Schneeberger and the victim. The family member promptly reported the findings to the Rochester Police Department on May 15, 2023, initiating a thorough investigation.

Following the investigation, Schneeberger was placed on administrative leave on March 6, 2023. Pine Island Public Schools Superintendent Tamara Champa confirmed that Schneeberger resigned voluntarily on March 16, 2023. While specific details of the investigation have not been disclosed, Champa emphasized the district’s commitment to student welfare and swift action in response to concerns about student safety.

The arrest of Schneeberger has also affected Byron Public Schools, where she is currently employed. District Superintendent Mike Neubeck released a statement clarifying that no allegations involving students at their institution have surfaced. Neubeck stressed the district’s unwavering dedication to the safety, security, and well-being of their students and urged anyone with information related to the case to contact the Olmsted County Sheriff’s Department. Details of Schneeberger’s employment status at Byron Public Schools remain undisclosed as the legal proceedings unfold.

During Schneeberger’s court appearance before District Judge Joseph Chase on May 26, 2023, she faced three felony counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct, including charges of penetration. Senior Assistant Olmsted County Attorney Joseph Rosholt argued for a conditional bail of $150,000, citing Schneeberger’s lack of community connections and the severity of the allegations against her. Rosholt highlighted the abuse of authority displayed by Schneeberger, who until recently held a position of influence over children.

Schneeberger’s defense attorney, a public defender, pleaded for a lower bail, emphasizing her client’s lack of criminal history. Judge Chase ultimately ordered a $75,000 conditional bail for Schneeberger, with strict prohibitions against unsupervised contact with minors or holding any position of authority over minors upon release.

If convicted on all charges, Schneeberger could face a presumptive prison sentence of 234 months. The seriousness of the allegations and potential consequences underscore the importance of a fair and thorough legal process to ensure justice is served.

Originally from Wisconsin, Schneeberger pursued her passion for education and sports, earning a bachelor’s degree in physical education from Winona State University. However, her promising career has been overshadowed by the grave allegations. As the case proceeds, the community anxiously awaits the next court appearance scheduled for June 8, 2023.

The Rochester Police Department has reiterated its commitment to investigating sexual assault cases and ensuring justice for survivors, particularly when victims are juveniles. Amanda Grayson, RPD’s Crime Prevention & Communications Coordinator, released a statement reaffirming the department’s dedication to supporting victims and working diligently throughout the investigative process. Grayson emphasized the department’s careful and compassionate approach, aiming to secure prosecutions while providing unwavering support to survivors of sexual assault.

As the troubling case unfolds, the community grapples with shock and sadness over the breach of trust within the educational system. The focus remains on supporting the victim and ensuring justice, prompting reflections on the importance of safeguarding students and fostering an environment of safety, respect, and accountability within schools.

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