The Bardstown Police Department arrested a Bardstown High School substitute teacher on Monday morning following allegations of an inappropriate relationship with a juvenile student. Authorities took 31-year-old Mary "Hanna" Mattingly into custody at approximately 10:30 a.m. on Monday, March 30, 2026.
Mattingly has been charged with first-degree sexual abuse and procuring or promoting the use of a minor by electronic means. The investigation began after school officials received an anonymous letter on Thursday detailing the alleged misconduct involving a juvenile student.
Bardstown City Schools Superintendent Ryan Clark confirmed the district immediately launched an internal probe upon receipt of the letter late last week. Mattingly was placed on administrative leave and removed from her job duties as soon as the allegations surfaced.
The school district subsequently alerted local law enforcement authorities to the report to initiate a formal criminal investigation. In addition to her role as a substitute teacher, Mattingly served as an assistant coach for the high school girls' soccer team.
Records from the Kentucky High School Athletic Association show she has held this coaching position for the last two seasons. Police investigators stated that Mattingly utilized her position of special trust as a teacher to engage in sexual contact with a high school student.
The department also alleged she sent partially nude photographs of herself to the student via electronic communication channels. Superintendent Clark released an official statement on Monday confirming that the school district had been notified of the arrest.
He noted that the school system takes all reports of misconduct seriously and investigates every allegation thoroughly. "We are unable to comment any further due to this being a personnel matter and an active investigation," the district's statement read.
The school board reiterated its commitment to student safety and welfare following the teacher's arrest. The Bardstown Police Department indicated that the investigation into Mattingly’s conduct remains active and ongoing at this time.
No additional details regarding the identity of the student or the specific duration of the alleged relationship have been released. Mattingly was processed and booked into the local detention center following her arrest on Monday morning.
Legal proceedings are expected to follow as detectives continue to examine electronic evidence and witness statements related to the case. The school district stated it would continue to cooperate fully with law enforcement throughout the judicial process.