Legal Analysis By Attorneys
Breaking Legal News
A former substitute teacher in Illinois has been arrested and charged with the sexual assault of an 11-year-old student, reportedly claiming the child initiated the encounters.
Alley Bardfield, 34, was taken into custody after allegations surfaced that she sexually abused the boy during "play dates" at her home in Mount Zion, Illinois, according to police reports by Local 12. Bardfield is reportedly a former substitute teacher at Hope Academy, located at 955 N Illinois St, Decatur, IL 62521.
Investigations revealed that Bardfield allegedly sent the child explicit images via Snapchat and transferred hundreds of dollars to him through CashApp over several months. The victim’s mother discovered the situation after noticing changes in her son’s behavior and finding a $700 CashApp payment on his phone.
When confronted, the child disclosed that he and Bardfield had engaged in unprotected sexual encounters, court documents revealed. Authorities believe two such incidents occurred in March 2024, during the alleged "play dates."
In interviews with investigators, Bardfield reportedly attempted to shift responsibility, claiming the boy made sexual advances toward her first. Despite this defense, she pleaded guilty to predatory criminal sexual assault on Thursday, August 7, according to WCIA.
The victim’s family has since filed a legal suit against Bardfield and the Decatur Public Schools district, accusing the system of failing to protect students. The Chicago-based law firm representing the family stated that the trauma inflicted on the child has caused lasting harm and criticized the district for inadequate oversight and training.
"These actions have upended the lives of our clients. Both the individual and the institution will be held fully accountable under the law," the firm announced in a statement to WCIA.
While Bardfield faces up to 40 years in prison, her sentence remains unresolved. The State of Illinois and Bardfield did not reach an agreement on the exact terms, leaving the decision in the hands of the court.
The case continues to spark outrage over the alleged failure of educational institutions to safeguard children from such predatory behavior.
When students fall victim to abuse by trusted authority figures, families are often left grappling with both emotional devastation and complex legal questions. Erv Nevitt, an experienced Illinois sexual abuse lawyer, shares valuable information about the legal avenues available to victims and their families, including how schools and institutions can be held accountable for failing to protect students.
Editor Darla Medina: When families face situations like this, what legal options are available to hold both the perpetrator and institutions accountable?
Attorney Erv Nevitt: Victims and their families can pursue civil lawsuits against the offender for damages caused by the abuse. Beyond that, institutions like schools can also be held liable if there’s evidence they failed to provide proper oversight, training, or safeguards to protect students.
Medina: In cases involving minors, how does the legal process differ?
Nevitt: When a minor is involved, the law takes additional care to protect the victim’s rights and privacy. Courts may appoint a guardian ad litem to represent the child’s interests, and the statute of limitations is often extended to allow victims to seek justice well into adulthood, recognizing the long-term impact of such trauma.
Medina: What advice would you give to families who uncover abuse involving a trusted authority figure, like a teacher?
Nevitt: First and foremost, report the abuse to law enforcement immediately. Beyond that, consult with an experienced attorney. A skilled legal team can help gather evidence, build a case, and hold all responsible parties accountable, whether through civil litigation or by advocating for systemic changes to prevent future incidents.
If you or a loved one has experienced abuse by a trusted authority figure, you don’t have to face the journey alone. Our team is here to guide you through your legal options and fight for accountability and compensation. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation to begin reclaiming your voice and your future.
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