A former high school guidance counselor in Los Angeles has been charged with sexually assaulting a 16-year-old student, with police suspecting there may be additional victims involved.
The 37-year-old counselor, who previously worked at YULA High School in West Los Angeles, allegedly exploited her position of trust to engage in inappropriate sexual relationships with students, according to Los Angeles Police Detective Russ Hess.
Charged with three felony counts of unlawful sexual intercourse with a minor more than three years younger and one felony count of oral copulation of a person under 18, the counselor's alleged misconduct with the 16-year-old male student reportedly occurred between February and March 2024.
If convicted, the counselor could face a maximum sentence of five years in prison. Authorities believe there may be other students who have not yet come forward, potentially adding to the criminal case.
Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón emphasized the importance of educators and school staff in creating a safe environment for all students, stating that the breach of trust affects the entire community. The DA's office is committed to seeking justice for the victim and ensuring full accountability for the accused.
The counselor pleaded not guilty during an arraignment hearing and was released on her own recognizance, with a court date set for November 1. YULA High School expressed its focus on student safety and well-being, refraining from discussing specific details related to the case out of respect for the privacy of the school community.
