Former Teacher Arrested for Coercion After Child Rape Charges
In a startling turn of events, a former Tennessee elementary school teacher and mother of two, Alissa McCommon, found herself behind bars once more. This time, she faces charges of coercion of a witness, aggravated stalking, and harassment. It’s the second arrest in just three weeks for McCommon, who had previously been charged with the rape of a child on September 8, 2023.
First Arrest and Bond Conditions
After her initial arrest, McCommon was released upon posting a $25,000 bond, but with strict conditions: she was prohibited from contacting the victim or any other minors besides her own children. The reason for her rearrest stems from her alleged violation of these conditions.
Coercion and Alarming Text Messages
Covington Police uncovered unsettling evidence suggesting McCommon had been texting the victim using a specific code word known to the juvenile. This code word was previously used by McCommon to confirm the child was alone, often before sending explicit photos on SnapChat.
Once alone was confirmed, the victim received multiple text messages from McCommon, which ominously hinted at him “regretting” their interactions. To make matters worse, McCommon, using the same phone number, reportedly admitted to a sexual encounter with the victim.
Police Reaction and Concerns
The Covington Police Chief, Donna Turner, expressed her shock at McCommon’s alleged actions, deeming them “appalling” and potentially in violation of her bond conditions. Authorities are worried that others may have been contacted in a similar manner.
Turner stated, “Due to the nature of the communications, we are concerned others may have been contacted. We continue to work closely with the District Attorneys’ Office as to the revocation of McCommon’s bond, as well as the additional charges that continue to develop.”
Current Legal Status
Alissa McCommon is presently detained at the Tipton County Jail without bond, pending her next court appearance. Her charges now include coercion of a witness, aggravated stalking, tampering with evidence, and harassment.
Previous Allegations
Prior to these developments, McCommon had already faced allegations of “communicating inappropriately with former students” through online platforms, including video games and social media apps. She reportedly sent inappropriate photographs and sought sexual relationships with the victims.
Initial Investigation
The Covington Police Department initiated its investigation after receiving information from the Department of Children Services (DCS), alleging sexual contact between McCommon and a teenage male student. This incident was said to have occurred in 2021 when the victim was only 12 years old.
No Evidence of School Ground Crimes
Authorities have not found any evidence suggesting McCommon’s alleged crimes occurred on school grounds. However, they encourage potential additional victims to come forward.
School Suspension
Tipton County Director of Schools, Dr. John Combs, confirmed that McCommon was suspended without pay on August 24. This suspension followed allegations of misconduct brought forth by a concerned parent.
Reporting Potential Victims
The Covington Police Department is urging anyone with concerns that their child may have been victimized by McCommon to contact them at 901-475-1261 or reach out to the Tipton County Sheriff’s Office at 901-475-3300.
The case remains under investigation as authorities work to bring clarity to the disturbing events surrounding Alissa McCommon.