Jury begins deliberations in 2nd trial of former Mass. teacher accused of raping former student

The jury is in deliberation for Caitlin Harding, a former teacher from Hudson, Massachusetts, who is facing serious charges of raping her student nearly 15 years ago. The alleged victim was only 13 years old at the time of the incident in 2010, and Harding has maintained her innocence throughout the proceedings. In her testimony, Harding claimed that she never had an inappropriate relationship with the girl and instead stated that her visits were related to an affair with the student's mother. This ongoing trial follows a previous one that ended in a hung jury, reflecting the complexity and sensitivity surrounding the case. The victim, now 28, has also filed a civil suit against Harding and the town of Hudson, adding another layer to the legal battles faced by Harding.

The case has attracted significant media coverage, especially due to Harding's familial ties to WCVB anchor Ed Harding, which has kept the story in the public eye. The jury's decision is awaited not only for its legal implications but also for its emotional impact on the involved parties. The outcome will likely resonate within the local community, highlighting the broader issues of trust and accountability in educational environments.