Former educator arrested, charged with sexual battery and enticement of a child to meet for sexual purposes in Ocean Springs
On June 20, 2026, the Ocean Springs Police Department was notified by the Ocean Springs School District of allegations involving an inappropriate sexual relationship between a teacher and a student.
During the investigation, detectives determined that former Oak Park Elementary Assistant Principal Olivia Marie Smith allegedly engaged in a sexual relationship with a student while she was employed as a teacher at Ocean Springs Middle School. The Ocean Springs School District fully cooperated in the investigation.
Following a probable cause hearing held today in Jackson County Circuit Court, Smith was arrested and charged with Sexual Battery and Enticement of a Child to Meet for Sexual Purposes.
Circuit Court Judge Calvin Taylor set Smith’s bond at $100,000, with $50,000 assigned to each charge.
This is an ongoing investigation. If anyone has any further information, please notify Ocean Springs Police Department at 228-875-2211or Mississippi Coast Crime Stoppers at 1-877-787-5898.
The Ocean Springs School District released a statement regarding these charges.
We are deeply saddened by charges announced today by the Ocean Springs Police Department against one of our former employees.
After being tipped off about potential inappropriate behavior taking place involving an employee, OSSD immediately notified OSPD and Mississippi Child Protective Services. OSPD immediately launched an investigation and OSSD began conducting an internal investigation into the allegations. OSSD has been working closely with law enforcement throughout the investigation. Following an internal investigation, OSSD terminated the employee.
We understand the gravity of this situation and the concern it may raise in our community. We want to reassure parents, students, and staff that we are addressing this matter with seriousness and diligence. OSSD will continue to work with investigators and assist them in any way possible. The safety of our students and staff members remains our highest priority.
Since this is an ongoing investigation, OSSD will not have any further comments on this matter.
