Lissa Lagasse, a 57-year-old teacher from Lowell, Massachusetts, was taken into custody on June 6 due to 21 indictments that accuse her of deception regarding her teaching credentials and military background. Allegations surfaced that she misrepresented her educational achievements, claiming to possess both an undergraduate and an advanced college degree, along with falsely asserting that she was a retired combat veteran and a Purple Heart recipient—awards that require a service member to have been injured in combat.
The investigation began after a report that her service dog had bitten a student. Lagasse claimed that the dog was provided by the Wounded Warrior Project, which supports veterans; however, the organization clarified that they had no record of her. Upon further scrutiny, authorities found no evidence that she had ever served in any military capacity. Additionally, she faces accusations of fabricating her teaching credentials, including claims of holding a master's and a doctorate.
Prosecutors argue that Lagasse's fraudulent claims were made to secure employment and financial benefits from various Massachusetts school districts, including Lowell, Worcester, and Haverhill. Haverhill Superintendent Margaret Marotta stated that Lagasse was employed as a science teacher after passing vetting procedures that indicated no concerns. She emphasized that once discrepancies arose, the district took immediate action to ensure the safety and trust of the community.
The District Attorney's office has charged Lagasse with multiple offenses including pretending to hold degrees, identity fraud, and impersonating a military member. Following her not guilty plea in Superior Court, her bail was set at $25,000, with the stipulation that she wear a GPS monitor and remain confined to her residence if released.
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