A former heartland teacher broke down in court Thursday before a federal judge took the bench. Kelsey Peterson began crying as the criminal indictment against her was read.

Peterson is charged with transportation of a minor with the intent to engage in sex. It carries a mandatory minimum 10 year sentence if she's convicted.

Peterson pleaded not guilty.

She's accused of having a sexual relationship with 13-year-old Fernando Rodriquez and taking him to Mexico.

Peterson is being held without bond.

Her defense attorney has requested a psychiatric evaluation for the former Lexington teacher. The 25-year-old Peterson has been fired from her teaching job.