Los Angeles high school counselor charged with sexually abusing 16-year-old student

A former high school counselor in Los Angeles has been charged with sexually abusing a 16-year-old student. Police believe there may be more victims in the case.

Julie Tichon, a 37-year-old who worked at YULA High School in West Los Angeles, “used her position of responsibility to gain the trust of these victims and then began inappropriate sexual relationships with them,” said Los Angeles Police Officer Russ Hess.

“Instead of giving them advice, she abused them,” Hess added in a statement.

The Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office has now charged Tichon with three counts of unlawful sexual intercourse with a minor more than three years younger than him and one count of aggravated oral sex with a person under the age of 18.

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The prosecution assumes that Tikhon's “unlawful sexual relationship” with the 16-year-old student took place between February and March 2024.

“If convicted, Tikhon could face a maximum sentence of five years in prison,” the LAPD said. “Although she is accused of attacking a single victim, investigators believe there may be additional students who have not yet come forward who could potentially contribute to the criminal case.”

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

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According to police, Tichon previously worked at YULA High School in West Los Angeles. (Google Maps)

“Our office is committed to obtaining justice for the victim and holding this individual fully accountable,” he added. “Every victim and family affected by these crimes should know that we stand with you and will continue to fight for your safety and justice.”

Tikhon pleaded not guilty during the arraignment on Sept. 19 and was released on bail from Los Angeles Superior Court, according to prosecutors. She is scheduled to appear in court again on Nov. 1.

Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascon says, “Teachers and school staff have a fundamental duty to provide a safe environment for all students.” (Myung Chun/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

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YULA High School told Fox11 Los Angeles that “the safety and well-being of our students is our highest priority” and that “out of respect and consideration for the privacy of our school community, we will not discuss any details regarding recent news reports.”