Former Downers Grove South High School teacher facing 52 additional charges in sex abuse case
WHEATON, Ill. (WLS) -- A former west suburban teacher accused of having an inappropriate relationship with a student is facing 52 additional charges in connection with the case, the DuPage County State's Attorney's Office said on Tuesday.
Christina Formella, a 30-year-old former Downers Grove South High School teacher and soccer coach, appeared at a status hearing on Tuesday morning.
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The alleged victim, who was 15 years old at the time of the alleged abuse, and his parents went to the Downers Grove Police Department to report Formella, who was his soccer coach and tutor, on March 15.
Formella originally appeared in court on March 17 to face one count of Aggravated Criminal Sexual Abuse, one count of Criminal Sexual Assault and one count of Aggravated Criminal Sexual Abuse.
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But she is now facing additional charges related to previously unknown sexual abuse and assault of the student, the state's attorney's office said.
The alleged abuse began in January 2023 and continued through August or September 2024.
During that time, Formella and the victim allegedly engaged in sexual acts at least 50 times, including at least 45 times at the school and multiple other times at her home. Formella also allegedly sent the student texts "that were grooming in nature," the state's attorney's office said.
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Formella is now charged with an additional 20 counts of Criminal Sexual Assault, 20 counts of Aggravated Criminal Sexual Abuse, six counts of Indecent Solicitation of a Child and six counts of Grooming.
A judge rejected the state's request to deny Formella pre-trial release, but she is not allowed to go to the school or contact the victim or anyone under 18 years old.
The school district said Formella, who was placed on administrative leave in March, has formally resigned and surrendered her teaching license.
Formella's next court appearance is scheduled for Aug. 4.
