Illinois teacher arrested for allegedly molesting student

Christina Formella, a 30-year-old special education teacher from Downers Grove, Illinois, has been arrested for allegedly molesting a 15-year-old student. The incident reportedly took place during a tutoring session in December 2023. Authorities said a student came forward, leading to an investigation. Police discovered text messages on the boy's phone that suggest an inappropriate relationship. These messages include explicit statements allegedly made by Formella. According to court documents, Formella used her role as a tutor and soccer coach to engage in sexual acts with the student. DuPage County Attorney Robert Berlin found the allegations disturbing. He stated that such behavior, especially from someone in a position of trust, will not be tolerated. The investigation revealed that the inappropriate relationship may have continued for over two years, starting during the tutoring session. Formella began her teaching career at Downers Grove South High School in 2020. She recently married her college sweetheart in 2024. Following her arrest, Formella has been placed on paid leave from her job. In her defense, Formella claims the messages and writings found on her phone were misinterpreted. She stated they were merely an outlet for her anxiety and only concerned her husband. Formella also suggested that the student might have accessed her phone to send himself messages as part of a blackmail scheme. She contends that she is being targeted due to her appearance and her caring nature towards the student.