PREBLE COUNTY — The Preble County teacher who was arrested for having a sexual relationship with a student has posted bond.
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News Center 7 previously reported that 31-year-old Garrett Stringer-Smith of Englewood was arrested on two counts of sexual battery on Friday, Feb. 7.
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According to Preble County Sheriff Mike Simpson, Stringer-Smith posted bond on Monday night and was released from jail.
He is no longer listed in Preble County Jail records.
According to Eaton Municipal Court Documents, his bond was set at $50,000 plus $85.
Stringer-Smith was arrested after a Twin Valley Community Schools student told a school resource officer that she had been in a relationship with Stringer-Smith since September 2024.
According to a previous News Center 7 report, the relationship changed to a sexual relationship in October 2024 when the student was 17. They are 18 years old now.
The investigation revealed that the sexual activity took place at several locations, including the school building.
Twin Valley Community Local Schools Superintendent Scott Cottingim told News Center 7 that Stringer-Smith was placed on administrative leave, relieved of all his district-related duties, and prohibited from district property.
“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,” Cottingim said in a statement.
Stringer-Smith has a preliminary hearing scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 12.
We will continue following this story.
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