Oprah disappointed with matron verdict

CHICAGO, Oct. 12 (UPI) -- U.S. media mogul Oprah Winfrey says she is profoundly disappointed a dorm matron at her South African school was acquitted of sexually abusing students.

Tiny Virginia Makopo was found not guilty Monday of 14 charges stemming from the alleged assault of six girls and a colleague at the Winfrey-founded Leadership Academy three years ago.

About 150 South African girls from low-income families attend the $40 million school, which was established in 2007.

"I will forever be proud of the nine girls who testified with the courage and conviction to be heard," The Chicago Tribune quoted Winfrey as saying in a statement about Monday's verdict.

Winfrey's statement also expressed her gratitude to South African prosecutors and police for their efforts, the newspaper said.