Paraprofessional Charged with Sexual Assault of Student in Jo Daviess County

According to reports, a 42-year-old paraprofessional from Scales Mound, Illinois, is facing serious charges of criminal sexual assault and aggravated criminal sexual abuse following allegations of a sexual relationship with a student under the age of 18.

The Jo Daviess County State's Attorney, Chris Allendorf, confirmed that Alycia J. Deckert, has been charged with two counts each of criminal sexual assault and aggravated criminal sexual abuse. These charges, classified as class 1 felonies due to the age of the victim and Deckert's position of trust within the school system, were officially filed in Jo Daviess County Circuit Court on March 4.

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Deckert's employment as a paraprofessional at a local school has been confirmed, although the specific school district has not been disclosed. Investigations conducted jointly by the Jo Daviess Sheriff's Department and the Elizabeth Police Department led to Deckert's arrest. Currently, she is being held in the Jo Daviess County Jail pending a pre-trial detention hearing.

The allegations have rattled the community, leaving parents and residents deeply concerned. Paraprofessionals are integral members of school communities, assisting teachers in various capacities to ensure students' educational needs are met. However, this incident underscores the crucial importance of maintaining professional boundaries and safeguarding the well-being of students.

Deckert's arrest highlights the necessity for rigorous screening, training, and oversight within educational institutions. It serves as a stark reminder of the responsibility educators bear in creating safe environments where students can learn without fear of exploitation or harm. As legal proceedings progress, the community anxiously awaits further developments in this troubling case, hopeful for justice to prevail and for measures to be implemented to prevent similar incidents in the future.

As details continue to emerge, authorities urge anyone with relevant information to come forward. The safety and well-being of students remain paramount, and the community stands united in ensuring that such incidents are swiftly addressed and prevented in the future.