Carissa Smith was charged with two counts of Sexual Trafficking of a Child Under the age of 18, nine counts of Statutory Rape, two counts of Statutory Sodomy, three counts of Sexual Contact with a Student, one count of Patronizing Prostitution – 14 years, and younger, and two counts of Hindering Prosecution of a Felony. (Photo from Pulaski County Jail.)
In a troubling incident that has shocked the small town of Dixon, Missouri, Carissa Smith, a teacher from the Dixon School District, was arrested on November 12, 2023, on multiple charges, including statutory rape and sexual contact with a juvenile. Dixon, located in Pulaski County, Missouri, is a close-knit community in the Ozarks, making these allegations even more unsettling for residents.
The Pulaski County Sheriff’s Department (PCSD) has detailed the nature of these allegations, which involve serious offenses against students.
Overview of Charges Against Carissa Smith
According to online court documents, Carissa Smith faces 19 charges that highlight a disturbing pattern of behavior. The specific charges are as follows:
- Eight Counts of Second-Degree Statutory Rape: Engaging in sexual acts with minors under circumstances that violate the law.
- One Count of Second-Degree Statutory Sodomy: Similar in nature, this charge addresses sexual acts that are deemed illegal due to the age of the involved parties.
- Two Counts of Sexual Misconduct with a Student: Engaging in inappropriate behavior with a student.
- Three Counts of Sexual Contact with a Student: Physical contact of a sexual nature with a minor.
- Two Counts of Second-Degree Sexual Trafficking of a Child under 18 Years Old: Involving the exploitation of minors for sexual purposes.
- One Count of Patronizing Prostitution: Engaging in or supporting prostitution-related activities.
- Two Counts of Hindering Prosecution: Actions that interfere with law enforcement’s investigation.
These charges paint a grim picture of Smith’s alleged actions while working within the school system.
Background: Carissa Smith’s Employment History
Carissa Smith began her career in the Dixon School District as a substitute teacher for Dixon Middle School during the 2022-2023 academic year. Following this, she transitioned to a paraprofessional role at the high school for the 2023-2024 school year and later took on a long-term substitute position until her resignation in August 2024.
Allegations of Exploitation: Students as Victims
The PCSD reports that Carissa Smith,allegedly exploited students by offering them money, marijuana, and alcohol in exchange for sex and oral sex. The incidents, according to victim statements, occurred at her residence and various public locations, including gravel and side roads. One victim, who was in middle school at the time, claims Smith requested sex. Additionally, she is accused of sending nude photos of herself via Snapchat to one of the victims.
The Kansas City Star provided further disturbing details, reporting that the probable cause statement revealed Smith warned the students not to tell anyone about their encounters, saying she would “get in trouble” if they did. Additionally, Smith is alleged to have paid the victims at least $100 each to engage in sexual activities with her, adding another layer of exploitation to the case.
The Superintendent Travis Bohrer of Dixon R-I addressed the arrest in a letter sent to parents on Wednesday, which was also shared with KY3.
I am writing to advise you of a serious matter involving a former employee of the Dixon R-1 School District, Ms. Carissa Smith. We were unable to share this information with you sooner due to the need to allow law enforcement officials to fully investigate without interference.
Earlier this school year, the District received a report of possible misconduct by Ms. Smith towards at least one District student. This report was shared with the authorities responsible for investigating concerns of this nature. We cooperated fully with both the Missouri Children’s Division and law enforcement throughout their investigations. We have also been in contact with the impacted families.
This morning, I learned that Ms. Smith was arrested and taken into custody by the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office. While the District has not received a copy of the charges, public records show that Ms. Smith was charged with nineteen offenses involving sexual misconduct with a minor. This is very disturbing and distressing information for everyone in our school community. I would like to share with you the steps our school district takes in serious matters such as this.
Whenever we receive a report of alleged misconduct by an employee involving a student, the administration initiates an investigation into the matter. If the matter involves certain kinds of allegations, we contact the Missouri Children’s Division, and we cooperate with the involved authorities. Additionally, to protect all persons involved, the employee is typically placed on administrative leave during the investigation.
Our Board of Education’s policies set forth our expectations for staff conduct. All employees also participate in annual training regarding appropriate conduct towards students, including appropriate boundaries between District employees and students.
The District also conducts background checks on employees prior to hiring. At all times, our school district’s first and most important mission is to provide the best education possible for our students in a safe and secure environment.
Therefore, parents and students should be assured that we are acting, and will continue to act, in accordance with our policies to address this matter and to maintain the safe educational environment that our community deserves and expects.
We appreciate the patience of our school community as we move through this process.Should you have any concerns about any conduct by a school employee with your child, or any other child, you may contact Superintendent Travis Bohrer at 573-759-7163, ext. 1, the Missouri Children’s Division at 1-800-392-3738, or Detective Chance Shoecraft with the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Department 573-774-6196, ext. 4808.
Legal Proceedings and Current Status
As of now, Carissa Smith is being held in the Pulaski County Detention Center, with a bond set at $250,000 cash or surety. The investigation remains ongoing, with PCSD indicating that more charges may be forthcoming as they interview additional victims. The legal proceedings are being closely monitored, as community members and advocates call for justice for the affected students.
Related |Kenosha School Employee Charged with Child Sexual Assault
Community Response: A Call for Awareness
This incident has sparked outrage and concern within the Dixon community and beyond. Parents and guardians are urged to remain vigilant and to engage in open conversations with their children about boundaries and the importance of reporting any inappropriate behavior.
Conclusion: Moving Forward After a Disturbing Incident
The case against Carissa Smith serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities that exist within school environments and the critical need for protective measures to safeguard students. As the legal process unfolds, the community hopes for justice for the victims and a thorough examination of policies that ensure the safety of all students.
Related|Emily Nutley Indicted for Engaging in Sexual Relations with Student
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