In a troubling case out of Tennessee, Alissa McCommon, a 38-year-old elementary school teacher, has been sentenced to 25 years in prison for serious crimes, including child rape and sexual exploitation of minors. This sentence came down on Friday, and she will not be eligible for parole. Along with her prison time, McCommon will be placed on the Tennessee Sex Offender Registry as a Violent Sex Offender and is banned from contacting her victims. Her teaching license has also been revoked.
Mark E. Davidson, the District Attorney General for the 25th Judicial District, expressed relief at the outcome, stating that these convictions show a strong commitment to prosecuting cases of child abuse, especially when young victims are involved. He emphasized that the legal process aims to bring closure for the victims and their families.
One of the most shocking aspects of this case is that McCommon gave birth to a baby fathered by one of her victims. The mother of that victim now has custody of the child. In a disturbing phone call that was presented in court, McCommon allegedly told the victim that she would raise the baby alone and love it, which raised many eyebrows.
McCommon had previously been out on bond related to the child rape charges but was rearrested due to claims of witness intimidation and harassment. Authorities reported that she used a secret code word with the victim to ensure they were alone before sending inappropriate photos on social media.
During a court hearing, a phone call played revealed McCommon pleading for the victim to stay quiet about the situation, saying things like, “I’m under so much stress and I’m so scared all the time.” Her attorney, Jere Mason, argued that there was no solid proof that it was McCommon on the call, highlighting the lack of direct witnesses to confirm her identity.
The troubling allegations against McCommon began when she was accused of raping a boy under the age of 12 at her home in 2021. Investigators believe there may be multiple victims, as she reportedly befriended children by playing video games and then sent them inappropriate messages.
McCommon worked at Crestview Elementary School and later at Charger Academy, where she taught fourth grade. She was suspended without pay on August 24, 2023, after a parent reported the allegations. Following this, she resigned from her teaching position.
Things took a turn for the worse when she allegedly reached out to a victim using a different phone number, warning him that he would “regret doing this.” This led to concerns from the Covington Police Department about the possibility of other victims being contacted.
The actions of McCommon have shocked the community, and many are relieved that justice is being served.
