WCES places employee on leave after arrest, says no threat to students

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

MARION, Ill. (KBSI) — A Carterville man has been arrested in connection with an investigation into alleged improper conduct involving a former student, authorities said.

Christopher C. Ballard was taken into custody around 4 p.m.

Wednesday without incident, according to the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office. He is charged with two counts of aggravated criminal sexual assault and two counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse.

Investigators said the allegations involve a former female student and date back to 2016 and 2017, when the victim was 16 years old.

Officials said the case is part of a broader investigation into alleged misconduct involving school personnel in the Carterville Unit 5 School District.

Ballard was transported to the Williamson County Jail following his arrest. Authorities said multiple court-authorized search warrants have been executed as part of the ongoing investigation, and notifications have been made to state and local agencies.

Williamson County Education Services confirmed Ballard is employed by the district and has been placed on administrative leave.

Executive Director Jami Hodge said the agency became aware of the situation when it was made public by law enforcement and is limited in what it can release due to personnel policies.
Officials said steps have been taken to maintain a safe environment for students and staff as the investigation continues.

The sheriff’s office said the investigation remains active and encouraged anyone with information to contact authorities.

All charges are allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.