A West Los Angeles high school guidance counselor faces charges Friday for allegedly having an unlawful sexual relationship with a 16-year-old male student earlier this year.
Julie Elizabeth Tichon, 37, is charged with three felony counts of unlawful sexual intercourse with a minor more than three years her junior and one felony count of oral copulation of a person under 18, according to Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón.
“Educators and school staff have a fundamental duty to create a safe environment for all students, and when that trust is broken, it affects the entire community,” Gascón said in a statement.
“Our office is dedicated to seeking justice for the victim and holding this individual fully accountable. To every victim and family affected by such crimes, please know that we stand with you and will continue to fight for your safety and justice.”
During February and March 2024, Tichon allegedly engaged in sexual acts with the boy multiple times, prosecutors said, adding that Tichon no longer works at the school.
Tichon was arraigned Thursday and pleaded not guilty to all charges. She was released by the court on her own recognizance. A preliminary hearing setting is scheduled Nov. 1 at the Airport Courthouse.
If convicted as charged, Tichon faces up to five years in state prison, Gascón said.
Investigators believe there are more victims of the defendant. Anyone with information is asked to contact LAPD Operations West Bureau Detective Brent Hopkins at 213-473-0447.