The Lafayette County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office announces that criminal charges have been filed in connection with an investigation involving a school employee and an 18-year-old student. Following a referral and subsequent review of the reports provided by Lexington Police Department, the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office has charged Ashley Dobson of Lexington, Missouri, a school employee, with sexual contact with a student, in violation of Missouri law.

Under Missouri law, specifically Section 566.086, RSMo, it is a criminal offense for a school employee to engage in sexual contact with a student, regardless of whether the student has reached the age of 18. The law recognizes the inherent imbalance of authority and trust in such relationships and prohibits this conduct to protect students.

The alleged conduct occurred off school grounds but falls within Missouri statute due to the nature of the relationship between the school employee and the student.

This case remains under investigation. All individuals charged with a crime are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

The Lafayette County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office remains committed to protecting the safety and well-being of students and holding individuals accountable when they violate the law.