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Authorities in Indiana have charged a former teacher from Eminence High School located at 6760 IN-42, Martinsville, IN 46151, with a series of alarming offenses involving teenage boys. Brittany Fortinberry, 31, of Martinsville, is accused of sexual misconduct, providing illegal substances, and sharing explicit images with students. These allegations come months after her dismissal from the school in late August 2023, following reports from two students who claimed she sent them nude photographs, as well as images of a stripper pole and sex toys, according to the Miami Herald.
The case took a darker turn in December when a teenager disclosed to his grandmother that he had been repeatedly victimized by Fortinberry. Acting on this information, the grandmother contacted authorities, leading to further investigation. According to court documents, the boy, who was 15 years old at the time, recounted incidents of being molested at Fortinberry's home in October 2023. He alleged that she gave him drugs, including mushrooms, before committing the assaults.
The teen also stated that he was not the only victim. He told investigators that Fortinberry engaged in sexual acts with "at least five — maybe 10 — boys." When asked why he came forward, the boy said he hoped to prevent others from suffering similar abuse.
The boy revealed that he initially met Fortinberry through a friend, who had already been a victim. He described how she would boast about her past career as a stripper and the cosmetic procedures she had undergone. According to him, she would become angry if he resisted her demands.
The allegations have now culminated in several criminal charges. On February 21, 2025, Fortinberry was charged with three counts of sexual misconduct with a minor, one count of disseminating harmful material to minors, and contributing to the delinquency of a minor.
Eminence High School, located about 35 miles southwest of Indianapolis, has not commented on the case. An attorney listed for Fortinberry has also not responded to inquiries as of February 25, 2025. Investigations remain ongoing as authorities work to uncover the full extent of the alleged misconduct.
Fortinberry’s case has left the community grappling with shock and concern, as families and officials come to terms with the seriousness of the accusations.
Former Martinsville Teacher Charged: 24 New Counts in Student Sex Abuse Case | Brittany Fortinberry
When individuals experience the trauma of sexual abuse by a teacher, navigating the justice system can feel overwhelming. We sat down with experienced sexual abuse attorney, Jeff Gibson, who shared their perspective on how victims and their families can approach these challenging situations. Offering practical advice and compassionate support, the attorney emphasizes the importance of understanding legal rights and finding resources to begin the journey toward healing and accountability.
Editor Darla Medina: When minors are victims of sexual abuse by someone in a position of trust, what legal rights do they have to seek justice?
Attorney Jeff Gibson: Victims of sexual abuse, particularly minors, have the right to pursue both criminal and civil actions. While the criminal justice system focuses on punishing the perpetrator, civil lawsuits offer victims a pathway to seek compensation for the harm they've suffered. This can include emotional trauma, therapy costs, and other damages that stem from the abuse. In civil cases, the focus is not only on the abuser but also on holding schools or other institutions accountable if they failed to protect students.
Medina: You mentioned institutions like schools. How can a school be held responsible in cases like this?
Gibson: Schools have a legal and moral duty to protect their students. If there’s evidence that the school ignored warning signs, failed to properly investigate complaints, or didn’t implement safeguards to prevent abuse, they can be found negligent. For example, if a school received reports of inappropriate behavior and didn’t take action, they could be held liable for enabling or failing to stop the abuse.
Medina: What steps should victims or their families take if they want to hold a school or institution accountable?
Gibson: The first step is to report the abuse to law enforcement and cooperate with their investigation. At the same time, it's important to consult with an attorney who specializes in sexual abuse cases. An attorney can help gather evidence, review the school's policies and actions, and determine whether they breached their duty to protect students. It’s also important to act within the statute of limitations, which governs how long victims have to file a lawsuit.
Medina: For young victims, speaking out can be extremely difficult. How can legal professionals help make this process less daunting?
Gibson: Understanding the emotional toll is key. Attorneys who work on these cases often collaborate with counselors and advocates to support the victim throughout the process. In legal proceedings, measures like video testimonies or closed courtrooms can help minimize the stress for young victims. The goal is to create an environment where they feel safe and empowered to share their story.
Medina: Finally, what message would you give to victims who are hesitant to come forward?
Gibson: I would tell them that their voice matters. Coming forward not only helps them seek justice but can also prevent others from becoming victims. They are not alone in this process, and there are resources, legal advocates, and support systems in place to help them every step of the way.
If your family has been affected by the actions of a trusted teacher, it’s important to know that help is available. No one should suffer in silence, and accountability is crucial. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your legal rights and the support your family deserves. Together, we can work to ensure justice is served.
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