Special Ed Teacher Accused of Sex with Student

(Divernon, Illinois) A 22-year-old special education teacher's aide at Divernon High School, Kourtney Mullen, was arrested for an alleged inappropriate relationship with a 17-year-old male special education student. Mullen was charged with two counts of criminal sexual assault. The alleged sexual episode between Mullen and the boy occurred this past week at an undisclosed residence.

Although 17 is typically considered the age of consent in Illinois, that provision of the law doesn't apply when a person abuses a position of trust or authority. It's not known if the authorities take into account that the alleged abuse of trust was over a special education student.

Mullen was booked into the Sangamon County Jail and released on bond.


[Update 02/02/07]

Mullen sentenced to probation.