Conn. mom to plead guilty in school residency case

February 22, 2012|Globe Staff

A Connecticut woman is set to plead guilty to allegations that she fraudulently enrolled her son in a Norwalk school and stole more than $15,000 in educational services from the district.

Tonya McDowell’s attorney says he expects her to plead guilty Wednesday in Norwalk Superior Court.

McDowell was homeless when she was charged with felony larceny last year. Authorities allege she enrolled her son in kindergarten in Norwalk using a babysitter’s address when he should have attended Bridgeport schools, where her last permanent address was.

McDowell’s case drew national attention and support from civil rights leaders and other advocates, who wanted the charge dismissed.

McDowell also faces drug possession and sale charges and has pleaded not guilty. She is set to appear Wednesday in Norwalk court on those charges, too.

Advertisement
Advertisement
|
|
|
|