A former Los Angeles high school guidance counselor has been charged with sexually assaulting a 16-year-old student, and police say they believe there may be other victims.
Los Angeles Police Detective Russ Hess said 37-year-old Julie Tichon, who worked at YULA High School in West Los Angeles, “used her position of responsibility to gain the victim's trust and begin an inappropriate sexual relationship.”
“Instead of advising them, she abused them,” Hess added in the statement.
The Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office has now charged Tishone with three felony counts of unlawful sexual intercourse with a minor three years or more younger than him, and one felony count of oral intercourse with a person under the age of 18.
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According to the Los Angeles Police Department, the suspect, Julie Tichon, 37, of Los Angeles, faces up to five years in prison if convicted. (Los Angeles Police Department)
Prosecutors say Tishone's “illicit sexual relationship” with the 16-year-old male student unfolded between February and March 2024.
“If convicted, Tishon faces up to five years in prison,” the LAPD said in a statement. “While she has been charged with assault against one victim, investigators believe other students who have not yet come forward may be involved in criminal matters.”
“Educators and school staff have a fundamental obligation to create a safe environment for all students, and when that trust is eroded, it impacts the entire community,” Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón said in a statement.
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Police said Tishone previously worked at YULA High School in West Los Angeles. (Google Maps)
“My office is committed to seeking justice for the victims and holding this individual fully accountable,” he added. “To all victims and families affected by crimes like this, please know that we stand with you and will continue to fight for your safety and justice.”
According to the DA's office, Tishone pleaded not guilty at his arraignment on September 19 and was released on bail from Los Angeles Superior Court. He is scheduled to appear again in court on November 1.
“Educators and school officials have a fundamental obligation to create a safe environment for all students,” Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón said in a statement. (Myung Chun/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)
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YULA High School told Fox 11 Los Angeles that “the safety and health of our students is our top priority” and “out of respect and consideration for the privacy of our school community, we will not be discussing specifics regarding recent news reports.”
