Fort Payne, AL – In a troubling development, Kristen Jade Ford, a 30-year-old substitute teacher from Fort Payne, Alabama, finds herself at the center of controversy after being arrested for engaging in a sex act with a student under the age of 19. The arrest, which took place last Thursday, follows complaints received by the Dekalb County Sheriff’s Office regarding Ford’s alleged inappropriate relationship with a student.
Ford, who worked as a substitute teacher within the DeKalb County School District, was taken into custody as authorities initiated a thorough investigation into the matter. The DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office expressed gratitude for their Investigation Unit’s prompt and diligent efforts in swiftly resolving the case.
DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden, addressing the incident, stated, “Cases involving our children are never easy, but I am thankful for our Investigation Unit and their diligence in resolving this case so fast. Our children are our future, and protecting them is our number one priority.”
Despite the severity of the allegations, the specific school where the alleged misconduct occurred has not been disclosed. Additionally, there is no clarity on the duration of Ford’s tenure as a substitute teacher within the district, leaving the community eager for more information.
The arrest has taken an unusual turn as Ford’s mugshot, publicly shared by the Sheriff’s Office, captured her smiling. This unanticipated expression has stirred conversations on social media platforms, with individuals questioning the appropriateness of such a demeanor in light of the serious allegations.
This arrest marks the second incident within two weeks in Alabama, with Leslie Rains, a 28-year-old former Marshall County Schools employee, facing charges for engaging in a sexual act with a student under the age of 19 on November 30. Rains, a physical education teacher, promptly resigned after the allegations surfaced.
Marshall County School Superintendent Cindy Wigley emphasized the district’s unwavering commitment to student safety, stating, “As soon as allegations of misconduct were brought to our attention, the district reported these allegations to authorities, conducted a prompt investigation, and then took immediate action.”
While specific details surrounding Ford’s arrest remain limited, the case has sparked considerable discussion and commentary on social media platforms. Concerns have been raised about the seemingly lighthearted expression captured in Ford’s mugshot, prompting questions about the emotional toll of such incidents on the community.
The DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office is yet to release further information regarding the ongoing investigation, and the community awaits updates as authorities work to ensure justice and uphold the safety of students within the school district.
Last Known Contact Information
Address: 164 Gregory Dr Collinsville, AL 35961
Phone: 256-441-2097
Email: ashleighnicole0777@gmail.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kristynn.ford