A former teacher in Ohio has admitted to engaging in unlawful sexual conduct with a 15-year-old student, following an investigation into her inappropriate actions. Jamelah Daboubi, aged 28, pleaded guilty to charges of gross sexual imposition and unlawful sexual conduct with a minor on February 4, in Franklin County Common Pleas Court.
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The case came to public attention on April 2, 2025, when police were summoned to the home of a Columbus woman. She reported discovering her 15-year-old nephew and his teacher engaged in sexual activities within the confines of a vehicle. According to the Franklin County Prosecuting Attorney, the boy, under his aunt’s guardianship, confessed to having a relationship that involved kissing and touching with Daboubi.
Subsequent investigations revealed that the inappropriate relationship had been ongoing for several months. Police acquired the student’s phone and uncovered a significant volume of communications between him and Daboubi. This included hundreds of phone calls and thousands of text messages, some of which contained declarations of love between the two parties.
After the allegations surfaced, Daboubi was terminated from her position at Horizon Science Academy in Columbus. Following an investigation, she was indicted on two counts of sexual battery on June 27, 2025.
In a plea deal with prosecutors, Daboubi agreed to the amended charges of gross sexual imposition and unlawful sexual conduct with a minor, as documented by online court records. She is currently facing a potential prison sentence of up to 18 months. Furthermore, the court has advised a duration of five years under community control, ongoing counselling, community service obligations, and the relinquishment of her teaching licence.
As part of her plea agreement, she is also required to register as a Tier II sex offender, a status that will mandate her to report her personal information to local authorities for a specified period. The court has yet to confirm a date for her sentencing.
Daboubi’s attorney has not responded to requests for comment from various media outlets. The case has raised pertinent concerns surrounding the responsibilities of educators and the safeguarding of students, highlighting how breaches of trust in educational environments can lead to severe consequences.
This troubling incident underscores the need for vigilance in ensuring that student safety remains a priority in schools. Authorities continue to advocate for open lines of communication for those affected by sexual abuse, emphasising the importance of reporting and seeking help in such circumstances.
In light of these events, individuals who suspect they or someone they know may be experiencing sexual abuse are encouraged to reach out for support. The Crisis Text Line is available, providing access to certified crisis counsellors for those in need.