An Indiana language arts high school teacher is in serious legal trouble after police allege she mistakenly left THC-infused candies out in her classroom, which students ate believing them to be regular sweets.
On November 15, 2025, Steuben County law enforcement announced the arrest of 49-year-old Debra L. McGillem, the teacher at Angola High School in northern Indiana. According to the Steuben County Sheriff’s Office, two students unknowingly consumed the THC edibles during their last class period on November 13. Reports say the students experienced symptoms of THC intoxication, but they otherwise had no adverse health effects.
Investigators say McGillem accidentally left the “special candy” out in the open and that she brought it to the school. According to reports, investigators found additional food items suspected of containing THC in McGillem’s possession.
During questioning at the sheriff’s office, authorities observed indications that McGillem may have driven a vehicle while impaired, triggering a separate charge.
“The best teacher in that school”
Deputies said it was determined that the candy was brought into the classroom by a teacher, later identified as 49-year-old Debra McGillem. https://t.co/bMMGjc19Nn
— WSAZ NewsChannel 3 (@WSAZnews) November 16, 2025
While the legal process unfolds, some students have voiced support for McGillem, describing her as a caring teacher. One senior reportedly posted on social media: “She was the best teacher in that school by far… people make mistakes just like we all do.”
The student added, “She doesn’t deserve all the hate and disrespect. She’s a human being, people make mistakes just like we all do. Yeah she made a pretty big one, but it could be worse, always. There are so many drugs and other things going around that school. This should be the least of your guys worries. For all you guys know, your kids could be at school doing the same thing and you have no idea. Be better. Be smarter.”
The school district, the Metropolitan School District of Steuben County (MSDSC), issued a statement acknowledging the incident and confirming an internal investigation is underway. Appropriate disciplinary action will be taken in accordance with district policy and applicable law.
McGillem’s potential legal consequences
As a result of the investigation, McGillem has been booked into the Steuben County Jail on multiple charges: felony neglect of a dependent, felony possession of a controlled substance on school property, and operating a vehicle while intoxicated. Her bond was set at $6,500.
McGillem remains in custody, and the investigation is ongoing. Authorities have filed a report with the Indiana Department of Child Services, and school officials continue to coordinate with them.
In Indiana, possession of marijuana, including THC edibles, is generally a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. If the person has a prior drug conviction, it can be elevated to a Class A misdemeanor, leading to up to one year in jail and a $5,000 fine if convicted. If convicted on the felony charges, McGillem faces up to six years in prison, up to $10,000 in fines, and loss of her teaching license.
