An Illinois grand jury has indicted high school teacher Christina Formella on 52 additional felony charges related to the alleged sexual abuse of a 15-year-old student over nearly two years.
Formella, 30, was previously charged in March with aggravated criminal sexual abuse and criminal sexual assault, faces 20 counts of sexual assault, 20 counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse, six counts of indecent solicitation of a child, and six counts of grooming, the DuPage County State’s Attorney’s Office announced on June 17.
Authorities say the abuse began in January 2023 and continued through August or September 2024, occurring both at Downers Grove South High School and Formella’s home.
The victim reportedly engaged in sexual acts with Formella approximately 50 times, including about 45 times on school grounds.
The case initially came to light when the victim’s mother discovered inappropriate text messages on her son’s phone and alerted police.
“I love you sooooo much baby… Even though this morning was short, it was perfect,” one of Formella’s alleged texts read, “I love having sex with you.”
Formella, who also coached soccer, allegedly began tutoring the student after he sustained a collarbone injury, leading to exchanges on a school messaging platform that escalated to illicit contact.
During a March 16 traffic stop, bodycam footage showed Formella being arrested and appearing distressed, asking repeatedly for her husband.
DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin called the allegations “beyond disturbing” and praised the victim for coming forward. He also commended investigators and prosecutors involved in the case.
Formella appeared in court Tuesday for a status hearing. Although the state sought to deny her pretrial release, the judge rejected the request. Her next court date is scheduled for August 4.
The investigation is ongoing, and no further comments have been released by Formella’s legal team.
