A former Maine teacher is proclaiming her innocence after surrendering to police last week on charges of sexual conduct with a minor.

As the Portsmouth Herald reported, 29-year-old Jill Lamontagne allegedly carried on a sexual relationship with the 17-year-old that included multiple encounters.

According to court documents, the alleged abuse occurred “in the classroom, in her car and at her house.”

Investigators believe the the conduct occurred while she was employed as a health teacher at Kennebunk High School and involved a student at the same school. She resigned in September after five years in the position.

Her termination came months after the district was first made aware of the allegations.

She was placed on leave two times in relation to the case: in April following the initial report and two months later when a criminal case began to take shape.

The first court filing came in June, after the student’s mother filed an order of protection against Lamontagne on her son’s behalf. The same month, the teen was reportedly admitted to an area hospital after taking multiple medications in what he claimed to be a suicide attempt.

At that time, reports indicate he professed his love for the teacher.

Lamontagne was released from jail last week on $1,000 bail.

Following her indictment on felony and misdemeanor charges including sexual assault, unlawful sexual contact and sexual abuse of a minor, she pleaded not guilty on all counts, WGME reported. She could face up to five years in prison on the most serious charge.

Her next court appearance is set for December 22.

[Featured image: Jill Lamontagne/Kennebunk Police Department]