A former elementary school assistant principal on the Mississippi Gulf Coast was arrested Thursday and charged with child sex crimes.
Olivia Marie Smith was handcuffed by the Ocean Springs Police Department after the department received a tip on June 20 that Smith was potentially involved in a sexual relationship with a student. Smith previously worked as an assistant principal at Oak Park Elementary but was a teacher at Ocean Springs Middle School at the time of the alleged crimes.
Detectives said they found enough evidence during the investigation to charge Smith with sexual battery and enticement of a child to meet for sexual purposes.
The Ocean Springs School District, which fully cooperated in the investigation, police said, issued a statement after a probable cause hearing Thursday. In it, district officials noted that Smith was fired after an internal investigation into her alleged actions.
“We are deeply saddened by charges announced today (Thursday) by the Ocean Springs Police Department against one of our former employees,” the Ocean Springs School District said in the statement. “After being tipped off about potential inappropriate behavior taking place involving an employee, OSSD immediately notified OSPD and Mississippi Child Protective Services.
“OSPD immediately launched an investigation and OSSD began conducting an internal investigation into the allegations. OSSD has been working closely with law enforcement throughout the investigation. Following an internal investigation, OSSD terminated the employee.
READ MORE: Federal child sex crime trial delayed for former DeSoto County coach, youth pastor
“We understand the gravity of this situation and the concern it may raise in our community. We want to reassure parents, students, and staff that we are addressing this matter with seriousness and diligence. OSSD will continue to work with investigators and assist them in any way possible. The safety of our students and staff members remains our highest priority.”
Smith’s bond was set at $100,000 by Circuit Court Judge Calvin Taylor.
The investigation remains active, and anyone with information relevant to the case is asked to contact the Ocean Springs Police Department at 228-875-2211 or Mississippi Coast Crime Stoppers at 1-877-787-5898.
