Guidance counselor at YULA High School in West Los Angeles arrested for sexual relations with 16-year-old student

LOS ANGELES (KABC) — A high school guidance counselor in West Los Angeles was arrested for allegedly having sexual relations with a 16-year-old student, police said.

Investigators are looking for other possible victims.

Julie Elizabeth Tichon, 37, a Los Angeles resident who worked at YULA High School, was arrested last month for sexually assaulting an underage boy.

Last week, the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office filed charges on three counts of unlawful sexual intercourse with a minor and one count of oral sex with a person under 18.

She was arrested and pleaded not guilty at her arraignment on September 19. She was subsequently released on bail by the court and is due back in court on November 1.

According to authorities, Tikhon had an illicit sexual relationship with the minor between February and March 2024.

“The suspect used her position of responsibility to gain the trust of these victims and then began inappropriate sexual relationships with them,” said Detective Russ Hess. “Instead of counseling them, she abused them.”

If convicted on all counts, Tikhon faces a prison sentence of up to five years, according to prosecutors.

She no longer works at the school.

“Teachers and school staff have a fundamental duty to provide a safe environment for all students. When that trust is broken, it impacts the entire community,” said District Attorney George Gascón.

Investigators believe there may be additional victims. Anyone with information is asked to contact Det. Hess at (213)473-0561. Calls can also be made to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 or anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.