A 30-year-old Illinois teacher is facing serious charges after police uncovered explicit messages allegedly sent to a 15-year-old student. Christina Formella, a special education teacher and soccer coach at Downers Grove South High School, was arrested after the boy’s mother found disturbing texts while setting up his new phone.
Court documents reveal messages in which Formella expressed affection and referenced inappropriate encounters with the student. Investigators believe the relationship began during a tutoring session in December 2023 and lasted until the student put an end to it. Authorities also found additional writings on Formella’s phone that they claim further confirm the allegations.
“I love you so so much mama,” the boy sent the teacher.
“I love you sooooo much baby… Even though this morning was short, it was perfect,” the teacher responded.
“I know baby I love it so much … It feels so good … It’s so passionate … It’s so intimate … It’s so perfect,” the boy sent back.
Formella, who is married, insists she is innocent and claims the student used her phone to send messages to himself as blackmail. She also told police that she is being unfairly targeted because of her looks and that she was simply a caring teacher.
She has been charged with multiple counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse and criminal sexual assault. Released on bond, she is barred from school grounds and from having contact with minors. Meanwhile, she has been placed on paid leave as the case moves forward.
