Emily Nutley, 42, a former teacher at St. Xavier High School, located at 600 W North Bend Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45224, pleaded guilty Monday to two counts of sexual battery. The charges stem from allegations of an inappropriate relationship she maintained with a teenage student during the 2023-2024 school year. Nutley now faces a potential prison sentence of up to 10 years, according to WXIX.
Originally indicted on six felony counts, Nutley’s plea agreement reduced the charges to two counts. Under Ohio law, each count of sexual battery carries a sentence ranging from one to five years. If convicted, Nutley will also be required to register as a sex offender in Ohio.
Prosecutors disclosed that Nutley was in charge of a program aimed at helping students struggling academically. The victim, a participant in the program, began working with Nutley in the fall semester of 2023.
According to prosecutors, Nutley initiated contact with the student outside school hours, sending explicit messages and nude photos. Their sexual encounters allegedly began in November 2023, with at least one incident occurring in her office on school grounds.
When the student attempted to cut off communication, Nutley continued to send texts, prosecutors revealed.
St. Xavier High School, in collaboration with Springfield Township police, launched an internal investigation after learning of the allegations. Nutley’s sentencing is scheduled for June 10, where she could face significant prison time and lasting legal consequences.
If you have information, photos, or videos related to this case, please use our platform to share.
Victims of teacher misconduct may feel overwhelmed by the legal process, but understanding their rights is a vital step toward recovery. Ohio sexual abuse attorney John Bey offers a clear explanation of the options available for those who have experienced such abuse. Attorney Bey highlights actionable steps victims can take to seek accountability and compensation following sexual abuse by a private school teacher.
Editor Darla Medina: John, given the recent guilty plea in this case, what legal options are typically available for victims of teacher misconduct in Ohio?
Attorney John Bey: Victims in these situations often have both criminal and civil paths they can explore. On the criminal side, the state prosecutes the offender, as we’ve seen with Emily Nutley, which can result in prison time and mandatory registration as a sex offender.
Medina: And what about civil actions? Can the victim take additional steps?
Bey: Absolutely. Victims can file a civil lawsuit against the perpetrator for damages, such as emotional distress or psychological harm. In some cases, they may also have grounds to hold the school accountable if there’s evidence of negligence, like failing to prevent or properly investigate the abuse.
Medina: Does Ohio law provide any specific protections for victims in these cases?
Bey: Ohio has strong protections, including mandatory reporting laws for suspected abuse and statutes that allow victims to seek justice even years after the incident, depending on the circumstances. It’s important for victims to consult legal counsel to understand their rights and options fully.
Medina: Thank you, John, for sharing this valuable information.
Bey: My pleasure. It’s important for victims to know they are not alone and that legal resources are available to help them move forward.
If your family has been affected by teacher misconduct or sexual abuse, you don’t have to face this alone. Legal options are available to help you seek accountability and justice. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation to understand your rights and explore the next steps in your journey toward healing. We’re here to support you every step of the way.