A former Orange County Schools counselor in North Carolina has surrendered to authorities after being charged with multiple sex crimes involving students, following an investigation by the Orange County Sheriff’s Office.
Lesli Lambeth Bryant, 37, of Hillsborough, turned herself in Thursday after investigators obtained warrants charging her with two counts of indecent liberties with a student and one count of second-degree sexual exploitation of a minor.
According to the sheriff’s office, the investigation began on June 4, 2026, after Orange County Schools administrators notified a school resource officer about allegations of misconduct involving Bryant and multiple students. Deputies launched an investigation that led to the criminal charges.
Court documents allege that at least two students at Orange High School, where Bryant worked as a counselor, were involved in the case. One of the alleged incidents dates back to November 1, 2025, according to court records.
Orange County Schools said Bryant was placed on paid administrative suspension after the allegations surfaced. She later resigned from her position on June 12, 2026.
Bryant was booked into the Orange County Detention Center following her surrender and was initially held without bond pending her first court appearance. Authorities have not released further details about the allegations to protect the identities of the students.
The Orange County Sheriff’s Office said the investigation remains active and ongoing and urged anyone with relevant information to contact Investigator C. Tapp.
School officials said they are cooperating fully with law enforcement and remain committed to maintaining a safe environment for students.
Bryant has been charged but has not been convicted. The allegations have not been proven in court, and she is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty under the U.S. legal system.
