A former high school teacher in New South Wales, Australia, has admitted to a devastating betrayal of trust. Karly Rae, 37, pleaded guilty to multiple charges involving the sexual abuse of a 15-year-old boy near Newcastle, a case that has shaken the community.
The offenses occurred in October of last year, spanning locations in Bolton Point, Merewether, and Belmont. Rae’s guilty plea encompasses charges of sexual intercourse with a minor, possession of child abuse material, and grooming the boy for unlawful sexual activity.
Initially, Rae maintained her innocence, entering a not guilty plea in May. However, she changed her stance last month, acknowledging her culpability in the horrific crimes. The shift in plea came as she navigates new motherhood, having given birth just eight weeks ago.
The disturbing details emerged through evidence presented in court, revealing a calculated pattern of manipulation. Communication between Rae and the teenager unfolded on popular social media platforms like Snapchat and Instagram, laying bare a predatory dynamic.
Messages revealed a chilling awareness of the inappropriate nature of their interactions. In one exchange, Rae admitted to removing the boy from Snapchat, stating she found it “too tempting.” When he suggested they sever contact, she took “full responsibility,” urging him to “do what you want/need.”
The correspondence escalated with increasingly explicit suggestions, including a proposal for “one last rendezvous” before school resumed, accompanied by a disturbing offer: “I’ll bring my toy.” This calculated language paints a picture of deliberate exploitation.
The abuse was brought to light by the teenager’s cousin, who discovered the messages on Instagram and alerted his parents. Their swift action led to a police investigation and Rae’s eventual arrest.
During her arrest, Rae falsely claimed she believed the boy was of age, stating she thought he was finished with school. This attempt to deflect blame proved unsuccessful as evidence mounted against her.
Despite an initial denial of bail, Rae was granted release in June after informing the court of her pregnancy. A trial scheduled for August 2025 has been cancelled in light of her guilty plea.
Judge Roy Ellis has scheduled a sentencing hearing for March 25th, allocating two and a half hours for the proceedings. A comprehensive sentencing assessment report has been ordered to provide the court with crucial information.
Rae’s attorney anticipates presenting “a lot of subjective material” during sentencing. However, the gravity of the offenses and the vulnerability of the victim remain central to the case.
Ironically, records show Rae completed child protection training just months before the abuse began, in February 2024, highlighting a profound and tragic breach of professional responsibility. She remains on bail while awaiting her fate.
