Mississippi ‘teacher of the year’ arrested for sexual battery against student

Olivia Marie Smith was arrested and charged this week after police got a tip that she was engaging in sexual relations with a student while she was working at Ocean Springs Middle School in Mississippi. It was not reported how old the victim was. In 2022, Smith won teacher of the year and had recently been promoted to assistant principal at nearby Oak Park Elementary School, per the Sun Herald.

On Thursday, the Ocean Police Department said that it was notified of the alleged inappropriate relationship on June 20. Smith was arrested and charged with sexual battery, which carries up to 30 years in prison because she was in a position of authority. She has also been charged with the enticement of a child for sexual purposes.

“After being tipped off about potential inappropriate behavior taking place involving an employee, OSSD immediately notified OSPD and Mississippi Child Protective Services. OSPD immediately launched an investigation and OSSD began conducting an internal investigation into the allegations. OSSD has been working closely with law enforcement throughout the investigation. Following an internal investigation, OSSD terminated the employee," Ocean Springs School District officials told reporters at WLOX.

"We understand the gravity of this situation and the concern it may raise in our community. We want to reassure parents, students, and staff that we are addressing this matter with seriousness and diligence," the statement added.

Smith's bond has been set at $100,000 with $50,000 assigned to each charge she was given.

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