Kelly-Anne Jennings sentenced to four-years in prison for child sex crimes

Kelly-Anne Jennings walks into Lindsay court before her sentencing. Photo by Dan Jones, CFWN, LJI

By: Dan Jones, Northumberland 89.7 FM News, Local Journalism Initiative.

WARNING: This story contains disturbing material.

Kelly-Anne Jennings, a former Port Hope elementary school teacher is now behind bars, after being sentenced for sex crimes against children.

Justice Nathan Baker in a Lindsay court Thursday sentenced her to four-years in prison, the sentencing request from Crown Attorney JulieAnn Barret.

Defense attorney Dean Embry was advocating for a conditional sentencing, sparing her any jail time.

Jennings previously pleaded guilty to luring a minor through telecommunications and child pornography. She communicated with the three former students through Snapchat. J

ennings sent half nude and full nude photos of herself, as well as videos of her touching herself including masturbation to the victims. She requested that the victims too send her naked photos and videos as well. The victims sent photos and videos in return.

The third victim forwarded the Snapchat material to Port Hope Police, who opened an investigation and eventually arrested her in August 2024. Investigators allege that a boy came forward accusing her of inappropriate touching on a school trip. The incidents are alleged to have occurred between June 2022 and April 2024 all taking place in the Port Hope area.

Baker stated that a custodial sentence reflected the severity of the crimes committed and the ongoing harm to the children victims. He said children are vulnerable and deserve protection and respect and should not be used by adults for sexual gratification.

There is a publication ban in effect to protect the identities of the victims. One of the victim’s family issued a statement following the sentencing.

From my son:

“She deserved what she got. I'm glad she's away from her own kids and can't hurt anyone else. She broke my trust of adults. She was like a second mother to me and she used that close relationship to take my innocence from me. I hope these 4 years in jail are the worst years of her life.”

From my (mother) perspective:

“There is no amount of justice that will right the terrible wrong that was done to my son and the other boys but today, Justice Baker gave us a small piece of closure.  The 4 year sentence is what she deserves. She has forever changed the lives of these boys and their families. This strong sentence shows that crimes against children, against our community, will not be tolerated.”

“I want to truly thank the Port Hope police department and specifically Detective Eric Rowlands. Detective Rowlands was instrumental in bringing justice for these boys and we are so appreciative of all his hard work and the kindness he showed throughout the process. We will be forever grateful.”

Embry denied interviewing or issuing a statement when court concluded. Jennings showed no emotion or remorse as she was taken into custody to begin serving her sentence.

She will be placed on the sex offender registry for life, followed by probation of 10 years. She is also prohibited from attending public parks, swimming pools, daycares or any setting where children under the age of 16 are expected to be present. She is barred from gaining employment where she has authority over children under 16. Jennings cannot communicate or contact the victims and must remain at least 200 meters away from where they are living.