Aurora, IL - A middle school teacher from Aurora, Illinois, faces felony charges following allegations of an inappropriate sexual relationship with a former student.
Charges and Initial Court Appearance
Prosecutors said Jessica Bergmann, 34, a teacher at Washington Middle School, was charged with criminal sexual assault and aggravated criminal sexual abuse in a position of authority, among other offenses. She appeared in court on Saturday and was released under strict conditions, including no contact with the victim or any minor.
Aurora Teacher Charged With Sexual Assault of Former Student
The DuPage County State’s Attorney’s Office reported that the Wheaton Police Department received information about possible misconduct involving Bergmann and a juvenile male. The investigation revealed that Bergmann first met the student while the student was attending Washington Middle School. Authorities stated that communication between the two began through phone calls and text messages during his sophomore year in high school, eventually becoming sexual in nature.
Upcoming Court Date
Bergmann was taken into custody on November 7 and is scheduled to return to court on December 1. Officials have emphasized that any individuals found to have violated their position of trust with students will be held strictly accountable.
Legal Options for Victims of Teacher Misconduct
In the aftermath of a teacher’s arrest in Aurora, Illinois, we sat down with experienced sexual abuse lawyer Erv Nevitt to discuss the legal actions available to victims of educator misconduct. Nevitt explained how criminal investigations differ from civil cases and outlined how victims and their families can take steps to hold offenders accountable while seeking the support and protection they need.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: Erv, when allegations like these involve a teacher and a student, what steps can victims or their families take?
Erv Nevitt, Esq.: The first step is always to report the incident to law enforcement. That ensures a proper investigation begins. From there, victims may also have the right to file a civil claim against the individual and, in some cases, the school district if there were signs of negligence or failure to act on prior warnings.
Banville: Are civil lawsuits separate from criminal proceedings?
Nevitt: Yes. The criminal case determines guilt and punishment, while a civil claim focuses on compensation for harm. Victims often pursue both routes to ensure accountability and support recovery.
Banville: What advice would you give to families struggling with how to proceed?
Nevitt: Contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible. Legal guidance can help navigate both the emotional and procedural challenges while protecting the victim’s rights.
Protecting Your Rights and Future
Victims of educator misconduct and their families do not have to face the aftermath alone. Our experienced legal team is committed to helping victims hold offenders accountable and find a path forward. Contact us today for a free and confidential consultation to learn more about your legal options.
Source
https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/news/aurora-middle-school-teacher-csexual-assault/
