Emily Nutley, a 43-year-old former counselor at a Cincinnati Catholic high school, pleaded guilty Monday to two counts of sexual battery involving a 17-year-old male student, abruptly ending her case on what was scheduled to be the first day of her trial. The disturbing details emerged during the investigation, revealing that Nutley – who oversaw an academic support program – engaged in a months-long inappropriate relationship with the teen during the 2023 school year. Prosecutors confirmed the relationship included exchanging explicit messages and nude photographs, multiple sexual encounters both on school property and elsewhere, and continued harassment when the victim attempted to end contact.
Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers condemned Nutley’s actions, stating, “This child was in need of help and guidance but instead found an adult looking to act out her perverted sexual desires.” The school administration terminated Nutley’s employment in October 2024 after discovering the abuse and notifying law enforcement. The scandal had immediate personal consequences as well, with court records showing Nutley’s husband filed for divorce shortly after the charges became public.
Now facing a potential ten-year prison sentence, Nutley will learn her fate during a June 10 sentencing hearing. As part of her plea agreement, she will be required to register as a sex offender in Ohio. The case has sent shockwaves through the local community, particularly given Nutley’s position of trust working with vulnerable students at the religious institution. Court documents indicate the abuse occurred both during and after school hours, with at least one sexual encounter taking place in Nutley’s office on campus.
