HOUSTON -- A former Cleveland High School theatre teacher arrested for prostitution made her initial court appearance Wednesday.

Prosecutors say Laurie Lewis worked for an escort service, leading a double life as a call girl named “Victoria.”

She was arrested in a sting operation at the Four Seasons Hotel in downtown Houston last month.

Lewis’ attorney insisted his client was innocent.

“She is innocent. Once we get in front of a jury, the jury will believe us and our client can get on with her life,” attorney Michael Westbrook said.

Westbrook said they would return to court Sept. 23 to continue the case.

Police said they initially made contact with Lewis online in an escort service chat room.

They said the former teacher agreed to engage in sexual conduct with an undercover officer at the Four Seasons for $300.

When she showed up at the hotel, police said their sting operation was complete.

“We opened up a discussion with her in the chat room (and) she agreed in the discussion for sex for money. She was asked to meet the detectives at that location, a specific room number, and when she entered the room the deal was done,” said HPD Captain Bruce Williams.