ANKENY – Turned in by her alleged victim, an Iowa teacher is facing felony counts after accusations of an illegal sexual relationship.
In late January 2024, the administration of the Ankeny School District notified the Ankeny Police Department about allegations of an inappropriate sexual relationship that occurred between a former student and a teacher/coach beginning in 2015. This relationship continued for several years and was recently reported to the Ankeny School District by the victim.
The Ankeny Police Department immediately investigated these allegations. After this investigation, it was determined 34-year-old Rachel Whiteside, a teacher and coach with the Ankeny Community School District, engaged in a pattern of sexual conduct with the victim while they attended the Ankeny Community School District between the years of 2015 – 2018.
Whiteside is charged with Sex Abuse 3rd, Sexual Exploitation by a school employee (4 counts), and Lascivious contact with a Minor. Whiteside turned herself in earlier this morning at the Ankeny Police Department and was transported to the Polk Co. Jail.
Charges:
Sex Abuse 3rd – IA Code 709.4 – C felony
Sexual Exploitation by a School Employee (4 counts) – IA code 709.15 – D felony
Lascivious Conduct with a Minor – IA Code 709.14 – Aggravated misdemeanor
