Jury Begins Deliberations in Harralson Trial

Testimony wrapped up in the case of a former elementary school principal on Friday.  Carolyn Harralson is charged with failure to report alleged child abuse that happened at Rountree Elementary School last year.

On Friday, both sides gave closing arguments on the case of the State versus Harralson.  Now, her future rests in the hands of a 14 member jury.

Before the jury began deliberating, the court heard testimony from Harralson herself.  She testified the circumstances surrounding her case have been on her mind for the last year and a half. 

In her defense, Harralson told the court she began investigating the allegations of misconduct that surrounded P.E. teacher Mark Washam.  But after addressing the matter with the parents involved and her superiors, she felt the accusations of sexual misconduct didn't need to be reported to the Department of Social Services.

Testimony from witnesses this week said students alleged Washam touched their buttocks and breasts and inappropriately rubbed against one of them.  The victims include five females and one male who attended Rountree Elementary.

"In looking back in a year and nine months, my entire life would have been easier.  I don't know I that I would make that change.  I did not have reason to make a hotline phone call." Harralson said during her testimony.

The court also heard from character witnesses on Friday. 

If found guilty, Harralson could face up to a year in prison.