PREBLE COUNTY — A Preble County teacher was arrested Friday for having an inappropriate relationship with a student.
[DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]
Garrett Stringer-Smith, 31, of Englewood was arrested on Friday on 2 counts of sexual battery, both third-degree felonies, according to the Preble County Sheriff’s Office.
TRENDING STORIES:
- Gov. DeWine announces pick for lieutenant governor
- Police: Man arrested on drug charge after ‘barking like a dog’ at auto parts store
- Trump says he has directed US Treasury to stop minting new pennies, citing rising cost
The investigation into Stringer-Smith started when a Twin Valley Community Schools student revealed to a School Resource Officer that she had been in a relationship with a teacher that started in September of 2024.
The student was 17 years old when her contact with the teacher changed to a sexual relationship in October 2024. The student is now 18 years old.
The investigation revealed that the sexual activity took place at several locations, including the school building.
Preble County Sheriff’s Deputies secured an arrest warrant for the teacher on Friday and took him into custody at his residence in Englewood.
After obtaining a search warrant for his residence, deputies found and seized several items as evidence.
Stringer-Smith is being held in the Preble County Jail, awaiting arraignment.
At this time in the investigation, there is no information suggesting there are additional victims.
Twin Valley Community Schools is cooperating with the investigation, according to the sheriff’s office.
“On Friday, February 7th, Twin Valley Community Local Schools received notice of allegations involving high school/middle school teacher Garrett Stringer-Smith. The District immediately placed Mr. Stringer-Smith on administrative leave, relieving Mr. Stringer-Smith of all his District-related duties and prohibiting his presence on District property. The District has been in contact with local law enforcement and is also undertaking an independent investigation of the allegations brought to our attention.
Please be assured that the District is, and always has been, committed to the safety and best interests of its students. We take that responsibility very seriously. To that end, understand that the District’s investigation into this issue will be prompt and thorough and that the District will take whatever action is appropriate upon the conclusion of its investigation.”
— Twin Valley Community Local Schools Superitendent Scott Cottingim said
The incident remains under investigation by the Preble County Sheriff’s Office.
We will continue following this story.
[SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]
©2025 Cox Media Group
