A 28-year-old woman is accused of impersonating a student at a New York City high school. Yes, just like the plot of Never Been Kissed.
Kacy Claassen has been charged with criminal impersonation and trespass, according to a complaint sent to Oxygen.com by the Bronx District Attorney.
Claassen pleaded not guilty, according to the New York Post.
On April 13, Claassen allegedly enrolled at Westchester Square Academy as a 16-year-old student named Shamara Rashad, according to the complaint, while using a false birthdate of March 8, 2010.
Her plan did not unravel until April 27 when principal Marques Rich viewed a screenshot of Claassen’s Facebook page—allegedly featuring her photo, real name and birthdate of July 29, 1997—and learned her identity, according to the complaint.
When Rich showed Claassen the screenshot, she allegedly responded with, “I’m not Shamara Rashad. I’m not 16 years old,” then disclosed her real name and birthday, according to the complaint.
“I lied about my identity because my friend forced me to,” Claassen allegedly told Rich, according to the complaint. “She was using me to receive more public assistance.”
Rich later told police that Claassen did not have permission or authority to enter or remain inside the school.
Police allegedly recovered a student ID card with Claassen’s photo and the name “Shamara Rashad” from her backpack, per the complaint.
An attorney for Claassen did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Oxygen.com.
Claassen is due back in court on June 15.
“Enrollment fraud is a serious crime that fundamentally undermines New York City Public School values,” according to a statement sent to Oxygen.com from the Department of Education. “The NYPD is actively investigating these allegations and will pursue all appropriate legal action against those responsible. We are providing all necessary and suitable support to the school community.”
