• Carissa Smith, a former teacher in the Dixon R-I School District, faces 19 criminal charges, including statutory rape, sexual trafficking, and providing drugs and alcohol to students.
• Investigators allege Smith engaged in sexual acts with minors, offered money for sexual activities, and sent inappropriate photos via Snapchat. Evidence from multiple victims has been gathered.
• The Dixon School District is cooperating with authorities, encouraging families to report concerns to law enforcement or the Missouri Children’s Division.

A teacher from the Dixon R-I School District, Carissa Smith, faces 19 criminal charges, including statutory rape, sexual contact with a juvenile, and other serious offenses. The Pulaski County Sheriff’s Department (PCSD) confirmed her arrest on Tuesday, November 12. Smith remains in custody at the Pulaski County Detention Center on a $250,000 cash or surety bond, as authorities continue their investigation.

Charges Brought Against Smith

The charges against Smith include eight counts of second-degree rape, one count of statutory sodomy, two counts of sexual misconduct with a student, and three counts of sexual contact with a student. Additionally, she is charged with two counts of second-degree sexual trafficking involving a child under 18, one count of patronizing prostitution, and two counts of hindering prosecution. Investigators allege Smith offered students money in exchange for sex or oral sex, primarily at her residence, between August 2023 and September 2024.

Allegations and Evidence Gathered

According to the probable cause report, Smith allegedly engaged in sexual acts with at least one victim when they were middle school students. She is also accused of providing marijuana and alcohol to students, allowing them to use these substances in her presence, and sending inappropriate photos via Snapchat. PCSD detectives interviewed multiple victims who corroborated these claims. The ongoing investigation suggests that Smith may face additional charges as more victims come forward.

Smith’s Role in the Dixon School District

Smith’s employment history with the district spans several roles. Initially hired as a substitute teacher for Dixon Middle School in 2022 and 2023, she later became a paraprofessional for the high school during the 2023-24 school year. She then served as a long-term substitute teacher before resigning in August 2024. The district became aware of the allegations earlier but withheld details due to the ongoing law enforcement investigation.

District’s Response to the Arrest

Superintendent Travis Bohrer addressed the arrest in a letter to parents, emphasizing the district’s cooperation with the Missouri Children’s Division and law enforcement agencies. He stated that the district contacted affected families and encouraged anyone with further concerns to reach out to him directly at (573) 759-7163, ext. 1. Additionally, families can contact the Missouri Children’s Division at 1 (800) 392-3738 or PCSD Detective Chance Shoecraft at (573) 774-6196, ext. 438.

The allegations against Smith have raised significant concerns within the Dixon R-I School District community. As investigators continue to gather evidence, the district has urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant and report any additional information that could aid the case.

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