Colorado School Staffer Accused of Sexually Abusing 13-Year-Old Student, Now on the Run

Brenda Meza, a former secretary and coach at Franklin Middle School, is wanted on 12 felony charges including sexual assault of a child.

Mar. 19, 2026 at 3:03am

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A 34-year-old Colorado school staffer named Brenda Meza is accused of sexually abusing a 13-year-old student over several months. Meza, who worked as a secretary and coach at Franklin Middle School in Greeley, is now on the run and wanted by police on 12 felony charges including sexual assault of a child, online enticement of a minor, and tampering with evidence.

Why it matters

This case highlights the serious issue of sexual abuse of minors by school staff, which can have devastating impacts on victims. It also raises concerns about the vetting and oversight of school employees, as well as the need for stronger policies and reporting mechanisms to protect vulnerable students.

The details

According to the arrest affidavit, Meza allegedly groomed the 8th grade student by supplying him with alcohol and drugs, engaging in lewd text exchanges, and arranging multiple sexual encounters at locations like a park and a Walmart parking lot. The investigation revealed that Meza had taken numerous photos of the pair appearing to drink, hold marijuana, and spend time together during after-school activities.

  • In November, Meza and the 13-year-old student allegedly began exchanging sexual text messages.
  • In January, Meza and the student are accused of engaging in sexual intercourse for the first time in the back seat of her car in a Walmart parking lot.
  • Over the following weeks, the pair allegedly repeated similar encounters at least two more times at a local park.
  • On Feb. 12, police launched an investigation after receiving an anonymous tip alleging Meza's abuse of the teen.
  • On Feb. 25, Meza was placed on administrative leave and later terminated by the school district.

The players

Brenda Meza

A 34-year-old former secretary and coach at Franklin Middle School in Greeley, Colorado who is accused of sexually abusing a 13-year-old student over several months.

Franklin Middle School

The school where Brenda Meza worked as a secretary and coach, and where the alleged sexual abuse of a 13-year-old student took place.

Greeley-Evans School District 6

The school district that employed Brenda Meza and has been assisting police in the investigation.

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What they’re saying

“During the investigation, it was determined Meza engaged in continuous sexual abuse of the minor for several months.”

— Greeley Police Department

“Student safety and security is always our first priority.”

— Suzette Luster, Principal, Franklin Middle School

What’s next

Police are still trying to locate Brenda Meza, who authorities say left the area during the investigation and remains at large.

The takeaway

This case highlights the critical need for robust screening, training, and oversight of school staff to prevent predatory behavior and protect vulnerable students. It also underscores the importance of swift reporting and investigation of any suspected abuse to hold offenders accountable and provide support for victims.