KPTV - FOX 12Police: Former Benson High teacher arrested for selling cocaine

Police: Former Benson High teacher arrested for selling cocaine

A former high school teacher is busted not once, but twice for selling drugs, according to police.

Portland police first arrested Zuleyma Figueroa for selling meth three years ago, but she is behind bars once again this week for selling cocaine, according to authorities.

Figueroa used to be a Spanish teacher at Benson High School. Her first arrest back in 2009 was a huge shock to students and staff, who say she was one of the most popular teachers at the school.

"I just remember they were talking about it, saying how a Spanish teacher got arrested. I was surprised at first, I couldn't believe it," said Benson High School student Juan Mera.

Figueroa lost her teaching license after pleading guilty to delivery of meth. She was sentenced to 45 days in jail and put on probation for three years.

Now, police say she's involved with drugs yet again, and this time it's cocaine.

Police say they got a tip back in December that Figueroa and her roommate, Concepcion Mendez- Hernandez, were both using their auto shop in Southeast Portland as a front to sell drugs.

After searching the business, they reportedly found $100,000 worth of cocaine in a trash can outside of the shop.

Officers arrested Figueroa Thursday on charges of distribution and possession of cocaine.

"I think it's pretty crazy, and it's kind of ironic that she's like back at it again. It's crazy," said Benson High School student Savannah Tidwell.

Figueroa will be in court Friday, Jan. 27.

Police say they cannot find her roommate Mendez-Hernandez, who will face charges as well once she is caught.

Anyone with information on her location is encouraged to call police.

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