A teacher from the Dixon School District was taken into custody by authorities on Tuesday, Nov. 12, facing 19 charges, which include statutory rape and sexual contact with a minor, as reported by the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Department (PCSD).
According to online court records, Smith started working as a substitute teacher at Dixon Middle School during the years 2022 and 2023. She was subsequently employed as a Paraprofessional at the high school for the 2023-24 school year and later took on a long-term substitute position until her resignation in August 2024.
Following interviews ith several victims, PCSD reports that Smith allegedly provided money to students in return for sexual acts, primarily at her home. A victim reported engaging in sexual activity with Smith during their middle school years.
Online court documents state that Carissa Smith is charged with the following:
- Two counts of second-degree sexual trafficking of a child under 18 years old.
- One count of patronizing prostitution.
- Three counts of sexual contact with a student.
- One count of second-degree statutory sodomy.
- Eight counts of second-degree statutory rape.
- Two counts of sexual misconduct with a student.
- Two counts of hindering prosecution.
Smith is facing allegations of supplying marijuana and alcohol to students, allowing them to consume these substances in her presence, and sending inappropriate photos to a victim via Snapchat.
Smith is now in custody at the Pulaski County Detention Center, facing a bond set at $250,000, either in cash or surety. Authorities indicate that additional charges could be forthcoming as they continue to interview more victims.