A Carterville man who works as an educator in Williamson County has been arrested on several felony charges after an ongoing investigation into alleged misconduct involving a former student, according to the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities say Christopher C. Ballard was taken into custody without incident around 4:00 p.m. on April 22nd, after deputies executed an arrest warrant. The arrest stems from allegations of sexual assault and abuse involving a female student, which allegedly began when she was 16 years old. These incidents are reported to have occurred in 2016 and 2017.
Ballard has been charged with two counts of aggravated criminal sexual assault, which are considered Class X felonies under Illinois law, as well as two counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse, classified as Class 2 felonies.
Investigators say the alleged victim was identified during a broader investigation into reports of inappropriate conduct by faculty members within the Carterville Unit #5 School District. Officials noted that the inquiry has involved the execution of several court-authorized search warrants.
The sheriff’s office confirmed that Ballard is currently employed by the Williamson County Special Education District and is assigned to Herrin Elementary School in Herrin, Illinois.
Relevant agencies, including the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, the Williamson County Special Education District, and Herrin Community Unit School District #4, have been informed of the arrest.
“Our responsibility is to protect the most vulnerable members of our community,” said Sheriff Jeff Diederich in a statement. “When allegations involve the abuse of a child, we will pursue every lead, follow every fact, and hold those responsible fully accountable. These investigations are complex and often take time, but our commitment to doing this right, and doing it completely, will not waver.”
After his arrest, Ballard was transported to the Williamson County Jail, where he remains in custody.
Officials stress that the investigation remains active and ongoing. Anyone with information related to the case, or who believes they may have been a victim of inappropriate conduct, is encouraged to contact the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office at 618-997-6541 or by email at wcsheriff@wcsheriff.com.