FORT PAYNE, Ala.—On Monday, August 28, 2023, Fort Payne School officials contacted the Fort Payne Police Department and reported suspicion of an intoxicated teacher with the Fort Payne City School system.

SRO officers responded to the incident. After speaking to Melissa Ann Harris, 49 of Fort Payne, she was arrested and charged with Public Intoxication, Possession of Alcohol on School Grounds, and Possession of a Controlled Substance which she was found to be in possession of prescription medication and she did not have a prescription for.

She was taken to Fort Payne City Jail, processed, then transferred to Dekalb County Detention Center where she is currently being held awaiting bond. The Fort Payne Police Department and Fort Payne City School Officials are thoroughly investigating this incident.