Hailey Nichelle Clifton-Carmack, 26, is in custody following allegations of a romantic involvement with her 16-year-old student, brought to light when a classmate shared photos of scratches on the teenager.

Clifton-Carmack was apprehended on Friday, January 5, around 800 miles away from where the alleged incidents occurred, after initially fleeing.

The unnamed student’s father also faces charges of endangering the welfare of a child, accused of being aware of the teacher-student relationship.

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Court documents indicate that the pair reportedly used students as “lookouts” while engaging in sexual activities at school.

Authorities discovered text messages pertaining to the alleged relationship on the student’s phone on December 8.

The teacher, who recently separated from her husband Chase, is facing charges including sexual contact with a student, statutory rape in the second degree, endangering the welfare of a child, and child molestation.

Evidence and photographs, including images of scratches on the student, were presented to the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Department by a fellow student.

The reporting student mentioned that Clifton-Carmack was “too friendly with students and sometimes will dress inappropriately at school.”

Charged with endangering the welfare of a child, the father reportedly “continued to cover for them and allowed the relationship to continue,” even permitting Clifton-Carmack to visit their residence in his presence.

The Laquey R-5 School District Superintendent, Kent Stoumbaugh, stated, “We have been made aware of criminal charges being filed against an employee for alleged misconduct.

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We understand that charges are not the same as a conviction, and the employee is to be considered innocent until proven guilty.”

Stoumbaugh emphasized that the alleged misconduct is unacceptable, and immediate action has been taken.

Clifton-Carmack has not been in the district since December 8, 2023, and there are no plans for her return.