by Washington County, MN – A former Wisconsin teacher, Abigail Faust, already facing charges for allegedly kissing a student, is now under investigation for allegedly engaging in a sexual relationship with a 16-year-old boy she was hired to babysit. The case has raised concerns about abuse of trust in educational and caregiving environments.
Authorities revealed that Faust, who was employed as a nanny since 2021, initiated an inappropriate relationship with the teenage boy when he turned 15. In addition, Faust is suspected of being involved with another underage boy, expanding the scope of the investigation.
The Allegations Uncovered
On August 22, sheriff’s deputies from Washington County, Minnesota, responded to a report from the 16-year-old victim stating that Faust initiated inappropriate sexual contact. The deputy’s investigation uncovered disturbing patterns of Faust’s behavior, including:
- Conducting a sexual relationship with the teenage boy she was babysitting
- Possibly engaging with a second underage boy in a similar manner
- Telling one of the boys she was in love with him after public disclosure of charges
- Failing to report knowledge of another inappropriate relationship involving her friend and fellow educator
Faust’s reputation took a critical hit when victims and their families connected her to prior accusations involving a student she taught in Wisconsin. The ongoing investigation reveals a troubling overlap between Faust’s roles as teacher and caregiver.
Legal Charges and Court Proceedings
Abigail Faust is currently facing four criminal counts including:
- Failure to protect a child
- Causing mental harm to a child
- Child enticement
- Sexual misconduct by school staff or volunteer
She resigned her teaching position at Rivercrest Elementary School in May and is now detained at St Croix County Jail on a $200,000 cash bond. Both of her trials are scheduled for October.
Connections to Other Cases and Further Allegations
The investigation also links Faust with allegations against her friend Madison Bergmann, another educator charged with multiple counts including first-degree sexual assault involving a child under the age of 13. According to prosecutors, Faust was aware of Bergmann’s inappropriate conduct yet failed to report it.
Victims indicated that Faust had knowledge of both her own illicit relationships and Bergmann’s misconduct, with some witnesses observing suspicious interactions such as flirting between Faust and one of the victims.
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“Victim 2 described being kept after class by Faust, pushed against a wall, and kissed on the cheek, leading to emotional distress and withdrawal,” investigators noted.
Impact on Victims and Community Response
Victim testimonies highlight the serious emotional trauma suffered due to Faust’s actions. One victim stated, “I never want to see her again”, underscoring the profound negative effects of the misconduct.
This case not only reveals individual acts of abuse but also raises questions about the vigilance of educational institutions and caregiver oversight practices to safeguard children.
For further detailed coverage of this case, visit The Independent.
What to Expect Moving Forward?
- Trials for Abigail Faust and Madison Bergmann to commence in October
- Possible changes in school and childcare policies to prevent similar abuses
- Heightened awareness and scrutiny around teacher and caregiver conduct
Both cases remain under judicial review as the affected communities await justice for the victims.
What do you think about this troubling case involving abuses of trust by teachers and caregivers? Share your thoughts and experiences about safeguarding children in schools and homes in the comments below!
