Charges Dropped Against South Salem High School Teacher

The Marion County District Attorney's Office decided to take no action "at this time".

(SALEM, Ore.) - Students and teachers are relieved this afternoon after charges were dropped against a South Salem High School science teacher.

The teacher, Sam Dufner, is a well known staff member at the school. Students were supposedly "burned" by a Tesla coil during class last week.

"Dufner's students used a Tesla coil during class last Thursday. Toward the end of one period, Dufner noted that it could also be used to mark the skin," said Lt. Birr.

"Some kids agreed to be volunteers, and Dufner burned "I love mom" into their arm - a heart used to symbolize the word love."

Students who were there told Salem-News.com that the teacher did not force anyone to touch the electricity.

At the end of the day, an angry parent complained, and the investigation was underway.

37-year old Samuel Dufner was arrested at the school Tuesday, and charged with criminal mistreatment, according to Salem Police Lt. Steve Birr.

Dufner was released from jail after posting $2,000 bail, but the Salem-Keizer School District has placed Dufner on leave.

Today, the Marion County District Attorney's Office said after reviewing police reports, they decided to take no action, but that the investigation is on-going:

“

This morning, May 6, 2015, the Marion County District Attorney's Office received a probable cause statement regarding this incident. After a review of the probable cause statement, a determination was made to not file criminal charges at this time. The investigation is on-going. Once the investigation is complete and our office has an opportunity to carefully review all of the reports and evidence in this case, a determination will be made on whether to file criminal charges.

”