An Alabama middle school teacher is facing charges of rape and second-degree sodomy, following allegations of sexual abuse by a former student. Jill Brisendine Campbell, 47, was arrested after the student, now an adult, reported that he had been sexually abused by her over several years, beginning in 2015 when he was just 12 years old.
The Opelika Police Department confirmed the charges against Campbell, who has been a member of the teaching staff at Opelika Middle School for over 20 years. The alleged abuse took place during the victim’s 7th and 8th grade years at the school. The police investigation has uncovered evidence that supports the victim’s claims.
Campbell has been placed on administrative leave from the school pending the outcome of the investigation. A criminal complaint obtained by local media outlet WRBL alleges that Campbell engaged in sexual intercourse and oral sex with the boy until 2017. The complaint also cites text messages from Campbell to the boy, confirming the abuse and indicating that it occurred while he was a student at the middle school.
The parents of the alleged victim brought Campbell’s allegations to the attention of the school superintendent earlier this month. The superintendent then alerted the police. Opelika Police Chief Shane Healey has underscored the importance of student safety and is urging anyone with information about this case or any other crime to come forward.
Campbell was released on a $35,000 bond and is due to appear in court on May 7. This case serves as a stark reminder of the need for rigorous measures to ensure the safety and well-being of students in educational institutions.