On Monday of this week (August 28th, 2023), Fort Payne School Officials contacted the Fort Payne Police Department, and made a report regarding, suspicion, of an intoxicated teacher with the Fort Payne City School System.

SRO Officer’s responded to the incident – and, after they’d made  contact with and spoke to, Melissa Ann Harris, 49 of Fort Payne, she was placed under arrest – charged with Public Intoxication, Possession of Alcohol on School Grounds, and the Possession of a Controlled Substance – which was found to be a “prescription” medication that she did not actually have a prescription for.

She was taken to the Fort Payne City Jail – processed – and then transferred to the DeKalb County Detention Center, where she’s currently being held awaiting bond.

The incident is being thoroughly investigated by the Fort Payne Police Department and Fort Payne City School Official’s.