Violation of probation charge dropped against convicted sex offender, former teacher

TAMPA (FOX 13) - Disgraced middle school teacher Stephanie Ragusa did not walk into court with her trademark smile Tuesday.

Ragusa was convicted of having sex with her students and served 10 years in prison.

Last month, she was back in jail for violating her probation.

In June, Ragusa was at a Hooters Restaurant at Clearwater Beach and took a picture with a minor. She immediately realized that was a violation and reported it to her probation officer.

Tuesday afternoon in court, her attorney was asking that the charges be dismissed.

The prosecutor did not object. She told the judge they could not prove the violation was willful and intentional therefore they could not go forward with the changes.

With the charges dropped, the judge reminded Ragusa her probation rules are not recommendations. They are rules.

Ragusa will be released from jail Wednesday.