Mansfield, ARKANSAS

Role Model #562

June 19, 2008 - Deborah Ludlow, a Mansfield teacher, was arrested on charges of shoplifting. Investigators were called to Kohl's department store Wednesday night after store security stopped Deborah Ludlow. Officers said they found clothing and other merchandise in her purse.

GUILTY PLEA August 12 - Ludlow pleaded guilty Monday and is seeking treatment for a sleeping disorder as part of a plea agreement in Fort Smith District Court. District Judge Ben Beland said the court would take the case under advisement for one year and if Ludlow meets the terms and conditions of her plea agreement, the misdemeanor case against her would be dismissed.

The judge told Ludlow she must continue treatment with her physician, get treatment for her sleep disorder and that she must report status and progress every three months to the court for a year in order for the case to be dismissed

Mansfield School District Superintendent Jim Hattabaugh said Monday that he has suspended Ludlow from teaching and will recommend her termination to the board. She has 30 days from July 29 to appeal Hattabaugh’s recommendation.
Full Name: Deborah N. Ludlow

LAWSUIT October 31 - The Mansfield School Board fired Ludlow on Sept. 23, after she pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor shoplifting charge Aug. 11. Ludlow has filed a lawsuit seeking reinstatement to her former job. In addition to reinstatement, she wants back pay, benefits and costs and attorney’s fees and pre- and post-judgment interest.