ELWOOD — A former teacher at Elwood High School has been charged with child solicitation and official misconduct following an investigation by the Elwood Police Department.
Erin Orban, 24, of Lapel is accused of engaging in a sexual relationship with a 17-year-old student in the fall of 2019. Police arrested and booked Orban Tuesday morning.
As part of its investigation, police spoke with numerous students and faculty who suspected an inappropriate relationship between the two, according to court documents filed on March 25,
When interviewed by police, the 17-year old said he and Orban had sexual relations on four different occasions in the fall of 2019 including at her Lapel residence and a hotel in Fishers.
The relationship between the two began on Snapchat, court documents say.
At first, Orban would talk to the teen about how her husband “treats her bad” and Orban told the student he was cute.
Elwood Police were able to obtain records confirming a Fishers hotel was booked in Orban’s name on Oct. 26 and checking out on Oct. 27.
Prosecutor Rodney Cummings said they are waiting on the clerk’s office to prepare the warrant, but the clerk’s office is currently open for limited hours.
RTV6 has been unable to reach Orban for comment and no attorney is listed for her.
Orban did not speak with Elwood Police, court records show, and an attorney for the teacher’s union told the detective that Orban would “turn herself in” when a warrant is issued.
On March 10, Call 6 Investigates reported a staff member at Elwood Junior Senior High School was terminated.
PREVIOUS | Elwood school employee terminated after investigation
On Feb. 17, Elwood Community School Corporation administration was informed of a tip Indiana State Police received concerning an allegation involving a school employee, according to superintendent Dr. Joe Brown.
Brown said the employee was placed on administrative leave pending district and law enforcement investigations.
Elwood Police Department Chief Jason Brizendine said police received information about a former staff member at the school regarding alleged misconduct with a student.
Elwood conducted an internal investigation and the school board terminated the employee on Feb. 27.
“If facts warrant, additional information, as permitted by law and policy, will be provided,” Brown said.
