Michigan Educator Accused of Sex with Student

(Onaway, Michigan) A 31-year-old student success worker contracted to Onaway Public Schools, Debra Russ, has been accused of engaging in a sexual relationship with a 17-year-old student.

The relationship was exposed during police investigation of a burglary in which guns were stolen. One of the suspects in the gun theft was identified as the alleged victim of a sex crime.

Debra Russ of Millersburg was a contracted student success worker under the Northeast Michigan Community Service Agency, or NEMCSA.

She was working in the Onaway Public Schools and at Presque Isle Academy and met one of the 17-year-olds. While supervising, she also acquired guardianship and power of attorney over the teen.

"Michigan Law specifies that it's unlawful for any teacher or employee of the school district to have any sexual relationship with any student," said Hahn.

Russ was booked into custody on a charge of third-degree criminal sexual conduct.