Former Catholic school employee admits to sexual relationship with student.

A former employee of St. Xavier High School in Cincinnati, Ohio, has pleaded guilty to engaging in sexual relations with a minor student, an act she attributes to perceived neglect from her husband. Emily Nutley, 43, faced multiple charges and ultimately accepted a plea agreement, resulting in her admission of guilt to two counts of sexual battery.

The incidents took place between November and December of 2023, prompting legal action after the student, who was 17 at the time, came forward with allegations. Following the indictment, which included six initial counts against Nutley, a plea deal was reached that led to the dismissal of four of those charges, as reported by local media outlets.

Nutley’s professional role at St. Xavier involved directing academic services and leading a program designed to assist students facing academic challenges. Initial interactions with the student were focused on educational support, but these escalated into inappropriate communications, including the sharing of explicit messages and photographs. Reports indicate that Nutley engaged in sexual acts with the student in various locations, including her office, and continued contacting him after he attempted to end their relationship.

In the wake of the allegations, St. Xavier High School terminated Nutley’s employment. Authorities characterized her actions as deeply troubling, emphasizing the significant violation of trust that occurred. The Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office condemned her conduct, labeling it as child sexual abuse and describing the student as a victim of an adult predator who exploited her professional position for personal gratification.

Shortly after the indictment, Nutley’s husband filed for divorce, during which Nutley made claims against him regarding his behavior, citing “gross neglect of duty and extreme cruelty.” Despite these assertions, the gravity of her own actions has placed her in a precarious legal position.

Nutley currently faces a potential sentence of up to 10 years in prison and is mandated to register as a sex offender following the conviction. This case has stirred significant community concern regarding the safety and welfare of students within educational institutions and the imperative for safeguarding against such predatory behaviors among those in positions of authority.

As the legal proceedings continue, the implications of this case will likely resonate within the community and highlight the need for ongoing vigilance in ensuring the protection of vulnerable students.