Buckhead, Atlanta, October 20, 2025
News Summary
Marshall Lopez, a former teacher at Pace Academy in Buckhead, was arrested on charges of sexual battery involving two teenage students. The allegations include inappropriate touching and suggestive comments made towards the victims. Following an internal investigation, Pace Academy terminated Lopez’s employment. The Atlanta police are actively pursuing the case to potentially identify more victims and ensure student safety.
Atlanta
Marshall Lopez, a 33-year-old former teacher at Pace Academy, was arrested this week on charges of sexual battery involving two teenage students. The incidents allegedly occurred between March and early May 2025 at the private school located in Buckhead, Atlanta.
The accusations against Lopez include multiple incidents of inappropriate touching of female students after class. One victim reported three separate instances of such behavior. In the first incident, while discussing her grades, Lopez reportedly suggested he would slap her buttocks in exchange for a better grade. He then allegedly spanked her and asked her for a pinky promise to keep it a secret. In a second incident, Lopez is accused of asking the girl to place her hands on the desk before smacking her several times on the buttocks in a locked school library. The third incident involved Lopez allegedly pulling down the girl’s pants after asking her to turn around and spanking her twice, despite her objections.
A second victim also came forward, reporting that Lopez, after catching her cheating on a test, presented her with three options for punishment. She chose the third option, which involved staying late after class. During this time, Lopez allegedly instructed her to place her hands on the desk and proceeded to spank her multiple times. In addition to the spankings, the second victim accused Lopez of inappropriate hugging and touching.
Lopez was terminated from his teaching position at Pace Academy on May 1, 2025, following an internal investigation into allegations of unprofessional behavior at the school. He was booked into Fulton County Jail on September 1 and released on September 3, facing two counts of sexual battery against a minor.
Pace Academy has released a statement expressing their gratitude to the Atlanta Police Department for their cooperation in addressing this serious matter and has emphasized their commitment to student safety. The school has stated that they cannot provide further details due to the ongoing investigation.
Meanwhile, the Atlanta police are actively pursuing this case to determine if there are more victims involved. The police encourage anyone with information regarding the incidents to come forward.
Background Context
Pace Academy is a respected private school located in Atlanta’s Buckhead neighborhood, known for its rigorous academic programs and commitment to student welfare. The incidents involving Marshall Lopez have raised serious concerns about safety within educational settings, highlighting the importance of vigilance in protecting students from harmful behavior.
Letter from Pace Academy
The school administration reiterated its commitment to maintaining a safe environment for all students and assured parents and the community that they will fully cooperate with law enforcement throughout the investigation. They have reiterated that maintaining student safety is their top priority and will ensure that appropriate measures are taken as the investigation unfolds.
FAQ Section
What charges is Marshall Lopez facing?
Marshall Lopez is facing two counts of sexual battery against a minor.
Where did the incidents allegedly occur?
The incidents allegedly occurred at Pace Academy, a private school in Buckhead, Atlanta.
When was Marshall Lopez arrested?
Marshall Lopez was arrested this week, on September 1, 2025.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Marshall Lopez |
| Age | 33 |
| Charges | 2 counts of sexual battery against a minor |
| School | Pace Academy |
| Location | Buckhead, Atlanta |
| Incidents Period | March to early May 2025 |
| Investigation | Ongoing by Atlanta Police |
| Termination Date | May 1, 2025 |
| Booking Date | September 1, 2025 |
| Release Date | September 3, 2025 |
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Additional Resources
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
