An Albert Lea early education teacher was placed on paid leave after she was arrested for cocaine possession earlier this month.

Erin Lynn Bennett, 33, a special education teacher, was placed on paid administrative leave pending investigation after she was arrested Sept. 17  for cocaine possession at the intersection of Euclid Avenue and West William Street.

Albert Lea Executive Director of Administrative Services Jim Quiram said he is not sure when the investigation will be finished.

Albert Lea Public Safety Director J.D. Carlson said charges are pending while further investigation takes place.

Leonte Laray High Town was also arrested for cocaine possession during the traffic stop.

Charges are pending further investigation.

In a separate file, Bennett is charged with petty misdemeanors possessing/selling a small amount of marijuana and possessing drug paraphernalia. Arraignment on those charges is scheduled for Wednesday.