Thu Mar 20 08:45:33 UTC 2025: ## Illinois Soccer Coach and Teacher Charged with Sexually Assaulting 15-Year-Old Student

**Downers Grove, IL –** Christina Formella, a 30-year-old special education teacher and soccer coach at Downers Grove South High School, has been charged with multiple felony counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse and criminal sexual assault of a 15-year-old student. Formella pleaded not guilty, claiming in a police interview that she is being targeted due to her appearance and good character.

The alleged assault came to light on March 15th when the victim and his mother reported inappropriate contact to the Downers Grove Police Department. A joint investigation by law enforcement and the DuPage County Children’s Advocacy Center revealed that the alleged assault occurred in December 2023 during a tutoring session in a classroom before school. The victim’s mother discovered evidence of the alleged assault through her son’s text messages.

Formella, who had been employed at the school since August 2020 and volunteered as a soccer coach since 2021, was immediately placed on administrative leave and is banned from school grounds. At her court appearance on Monday, a judge denied a request to detain her before trial, but she was released under conditions including no contact with minors and a ban from the school.

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin described the allegations as “extremely disturbing,” highlighting the abuse of trust and authority. Downers Grove South High School Board of Education President Don Renner expressed heartbreak for the victim and the school community, assuring families of support and urging students to report any concerning behavior. The school is cooperating with ongoing law enforcement investigations. Formella’s next court appearance is scheduled for April 14, 2025.

Read More