Debra LaFave, formrer Tampa teacher convicted of having sex with a student, appealing ruling

By Associated Press:

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) -- A former Tampa teacher convicted of having sex with a student wants the Florida Supreme Court to take her off probation.

   An appellate court in August reversed a trial judge's decision to end Debra LaFave's 10-year non-prison sentence four years early. LaFave appealed to the Supreme Court in October and Thursday she asked the justices to let her remain off probation until they rule.

   A three-judge panel of the 2nd District Court of Appeal also asked the high court to review its decision as a question of great public importance. The panel acknowledged the state had no right under Florida law to appeal the trial judge's decision but cited common law to reverse it.

   LaFave pleaded guilty in 2005 to having sex with a 14-year old boy.