Atlanta, September 4, 2025
News Summary
Marshall Lopez, a 33-year-old ex-teacher from Pace Academy in Atlanta, was arrested following allegations of sexual battery involving two teenagers. The incidents reportedly occurred at the school, where Lopez is accused of inappropriate touching and misconduct while discussing grades. Complaints led to an investigation, resulting in his dismissal. The community is now concerned about the safety of students, as authorities are searching for additional victims related to Lopez’s actions.
Atlanta
Marshall Lopez, a 33-year-old former teacher at Pace Academy in Atlanta, was arrested this week on charges of sexual battery involving two teenage girls.
Lopez faces two counts of sexual battery stemming from incidents that occurred between March and early May 2025 at the private school located in Buckhead. The allegations include inappropriate touching and misconduct during discussions about grades.
Allegations Against Lopez
In one reported incident, a victim claimed Lopez touched her inappropriately on three separate occasions under the guise of discussing her academic performance. During one interaction in the classroom, he allegedly suggested that he would slap her buttocks in exchange for a better grade. He then asked her to turn around before physically striking her.
The victim also reported that Lopez requested she “pinky promise” not to disclose the incident to anyone. Another incident occurred in the school library, where Lopez allegedly closed the door, turned off the lights, and instructed the girl to place her hands on the desk before slapping her several times on the buttocks. On a third occasion, he reportedly pulled down the girl’s pants after she declined his offer for better grades in return for punishment.
Details from the Second Victim
A second victim accused Lopez of providing her with three options for punishment after she cheated on a test, including one that he would choose himself. When the second student selected a punishment option and stayed after class, Lopez allegedly had her place her hands on the desk while he struck her multiple times.
The incidents with the second victim reportedly ceased when another student knocked on the locked door during the encounter.
School Response and Legal Actions
Both victims reported their experiences to the school administration, which initiated an investigation leading to the notification of the students’ parents and the subsequent filing of a police report. As the allegations surfaced, Lopez was terminated from his position at Pace Academy on May 1, 2025.
Lopez was booked into the Fulton County Jail on September 1 and was released two days later on September 3. In response to the situation, Pace Academy has publicly thanked the Atlanta Police Department for their professionalism in handling the investigation. Authorities are now actively working to identify any additional potential victims related to Lopez’s conduct.
Conclusion
The case has raised significant concerns within the Pace Academy community and among parents regarding the safety and wellbeing of students. The ongoing police investigation may further reveal the extent of Lopez’s alleged actions.
FAQ Section
What charges is Marshall Lopez facing?
Marshall Lopez is facing two counts of sexual battery involving two teenage girls.
Where did the incidents take place?
The incidents occurred at Pace Academy, a private school in Buckhead, Atlanta.
What were the nature of the allegations against Lopez?
The allegations include inappropriate touching, and he allegedly offered students improved grades in exchange for physical abuse.
What action did Pace Academy take upon learning of the allegations?
Pace Academy terminated Lopez’s employment on May 1, 2025, after the allegations were reported and investigated.
What is the current status of the investigation?
The police are continuing their investigation to determine if there are additional victims related to Lopez’s conduct.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Band Director Convicted of Sexual Misconduct in Atlanta
Additional Resources
- Atlanta News First
- AJC
- Fox 5 Atlanta
- 11Alive
- Wikipedia: Sexual Battery
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sexual Battery
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.
