Downers Grove South High School Teacher and Coach Indicted on 52 Additional Charges of Sexual Abuse and Assault Involving Minor Student
DOWNERS GROVE, Ill. — A former Downers Grove South High School teacher and soccer coach, Christina Formella, is facing an avalanche of new criminal charges, intensifying an already deeply disturbing case that has rocked the community and sent shockwaves through DuPage County. On Monday, DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin announced that Formella, 30, has been indicted on fifty-two additional felony charges relating to the ongoing sexual abuse of a minor student—allegations that span a nearly two-year period.
Formella, of the 1300 block of Hughes Avenue in Downers Grove, had previously been charged in March 2025 with three felony counts involving sexual abuse of a 15-year-old student. However, as the investigation evolved, new disclosures from the victim have brought to light a far more extensive pattern of alleged predatory behavior. On May 20, a DuPage County Grand Jury returned a true bill that includes the following charges:
•20 counts of Criminal Sexual Assault (Class 1 Felony)
•20 counts of Aggravated Criminal Sexual Abuse (Class 1 Felony)
•6 counts of Indecent Solicitation of a Child (Class 3 Felony)
•6 counts of Grooming (Class 4 Felony)
These charges are in addition to the original three felony charges filed in March.
Timeline of the Allegations
According to officials, the case began to unravel on March 15, 2025, when the victim—then 15 years old—and his parents approached the Downers Grove Police Department with allegations of inappropriate sexual contact involving his coach and tutor, later identified as Formella. An investigation was immediately launched by local authorities and the DuPage County Children’s Advocacy Center.
Initial interviews and evidence prompted the early charges, and Formella was arrested. During her March 17 court appearance, the State’s motion to detain her pre-trial was denied, and she was released with several conditions: she was barred from entering Downers Grove South High School and prohibited from any contact with the victim or individuals under 18.
On April 17, the victim and his family participated in follow-up interviews at the DuPage County Children’s Advocacy Center, during which the victim disclosed significantly more abuse. Investigators allege that the sexual abuse began in January 2023 and persisted through August or September 2024—a staggering 20-month span of misconduct.
The new indictment alleges that Formella and the victim engaged in sexual acts approximately 50 times, with at least 45 incidents occurring on school grounds, further underscoring the egregious breach of professional boundaries and student safety. It is also alleged that Formella sent the victim multiple messages of a grooming nature, forming part of a deliberate and calculated pattern of manipulation.
State’s Attorney Condemns the Alleged Abuse
State’s Attorney Robert Berlin expressed profound concern over the expanded scope of the allegations.
“The new allegations against Ms. Formella, including the allegations of grooming and that the abuse lasted nearly two years, are beyond disturbing,” Berlin said. “I thank the victim in this case for having the courage to come forward during what I imagine is an extremely difficult time for him. I also thank the DuPage County Children’s Center, particularly Investigator George Fencl, as well as Assistant State’s Attorneys Jaclyn McAndrew and Michael Fisher, for their work not only in this case but for their continued efforts protecting our children.”
Legal Proceedings Continue
At a status hearing held earlier today, the State filed a second petition to deny Formella’s pre-trial release in light of the new charges, but Judge Mia McPherson denied the motion, allowing her to remain free under the existing conditions of her release.
Formella’s next court appearance is scheduled for August 4, 2025, before Judge McPherson. Prosecutors are expected to present the full breadth of evidence gathered in the ongoing investigation.
A Community in Shock
The case has left the Downers Grove community grappling with disbelief and heartbreak. Parents, students, and school officials alike are struggling to comprehend how such conduct could have occurred under the guise of mentorship and academic support.
District representatives have not yet issued a formal statement beyond confirming Formella’s separation from the school and emphasizing their cooperation with law enforcement. Support services are reportedly being offered to affected students and families.
Due Process Reminder
As the legal process continues to unfold, it’s important to remember that the charges against Christina Formella are allegations. Under U.S. law, every defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
This case continues to be actively investigated, and further developments may arise as additional evidence is reviewed. Anyone with information related to this matter is encouraged to contact the Downers Grove Police Department or the DuPage County State’s Attorney’s Office.