Downers Grove Teacher Pleads Not Guilty to Sexual Assault Charges

Christina Formella, 30, denies allegations of an inappropriate relationship with a minor student as legal and evidentiary disputes continue.

Christina Formella, a teacher at Downers Grove South High School, pleaded not guilty to charges of criminal sexual assault and abuse during her April 14, 2025 court appearance.
Prosecutors allege that Formella engaged in a sexual relationship with a 15-year-old student during a December 2023 tutoring session.
The allegations surfaced after the victim's mother discovered text messages on her son's phone and reported them to the police in March 2025.
The court is set to address a media outlet's request for extended trial coverage, which prosecutors and the victim's family have opposed, citing concerns about sensationalism.
Formella denies the allegations, claiming the evidence is fabricated and asserting that the victim attempted to blackmail her.