Plea Agreement and Charges

A former substitute teacher, Brett Smith, pleaded guilty to aggravated battery of a child in a case involving inappropriate behavior with a 9-year-old boy in Orland Park. Smith, previously charged with aggravated sexual abuse and wire fraud, had these charges dismissed following a plea agreement with Cook County prosecutors.

Sentencing and Restrictions

Smith received a two-year probation sentence and must register as a violent offender against youth. Judge Steven Rosenblum emphasized ending Smith’s involvement with children through teaching or tutoring during probation.

Victim’s Family Perspective

The boy’s father highlighted the emotional impact on his son and expressed distress over sleepless nights and worries about their child’s well-being.

Testimony and Prosecutors’ Concerns

To avoid traumatizing the victim further, the court allowed testimony through closed-circuit television. The boy’s parents feared re-traumatization if he testified in Smith’s presence.

Defense’s Position

Smith’s attorney, Steven A. Greenberg, questioned the evidence of mental health issues and called for a forensic examination of the child to assess the emotional impact of testifying.

Previous Incidents at Schools

Smith worked at several schools, including Queen of Martyrs Catholic School. Allegations included inappropriate physical contact during tutoring sessions, causing concern among parents.

Background and Investigation

Smith used aliases like BJ S. McAuliffe, leading parents to uncover allegations of past misconduct following a concerning bank payment request. This discovery prompted police investigation and charges.

“Upon learning these allegations, we took immediate action to bar him from our schools,” stated Greg Richmond and Leah Heffernan from the archdiocese.