Sun Times-Oprah Disappointed By Verdict In S. African School Scandal

Virginia Makopo has been acquitted of abusing teen girls at Oprah Winfrey's South African School: AP/Getty

(Story reported by The Associated Press)

JOHANNESBURG (AP) — A woman accused of abusing teenagers at Winfrey's school for girls in South Africa has been acquitted.

Prosecutors had accused Tiny Virginia Makopo of trying to kiss and fondle the girls. She also was accused of assaulting one of the teens as well as a fellow supervisor.

A spokeswoman from South Africa's National Prosecuting Authority said Monday that Makopo has been acquitted of the charges.

The scandal erupted at Winfrey's $40 million school soon after it opened in 2007 amid great fanfare.
In a statement Monday, Winfrey said she is "profoundly disappointed" at the trial outcome. Winfrey said she appreciates efforts by the prosecutor and police in seeking justice and treating the girls with utmost care and respect.

(Click here to read the full story on the Chicago Sun-Times website)