Middle School Teacher Accused of Sexual Relationship With Teen

FRANKLIN, Pa. (EYT) – Franklin Area School District Superintendent Dr. Pamela Dye said she was surprised at the allegations that one of her teachers was accused of having a sexual relationship with a minor.

“I am very surprised,” Dye said. “It’s sad.”

According to Dye, Kyle Stanley Askins, 25, of Franklin, was in his third year in the district. He taught physical education and health in the middle school.

He faces the following charges:

• IDSI Person Less Than 16 Years Age, Felony 1
• Statutory Sexual Assault: 4-8 Years Older, Felony 2
• Agg. Ind. Assault – Comp. Less Than 16, Felony 2
• Interference W/Custody Of Children, Felony 3
• Corruption Of Minors – Defendant Age 18 or Above, Felony 3
• Indecent Assault Person Less 16 Years Age, Misdemeanor 2

Dye wouldn’t confirm that the alleged victim, a 13-year-old girl, was a student at Franklin Area Middle School, but the affidavit of probable cause filed by Franklin-based State Police said Askins and the teen had met outside of school on ten occasions and that staff from the school had contacted police.

The investigation was initiated on May 1 when the girl’s parents discovered she was missing around 3 a.m.

During an interview with Franklin-based State Police Cpl. Bunyak later that day, Askins allegedly admitted to engaging in a relationship with the 13-year-old victim.

Askins allegedly engaged in sexual intercourse with the victim on eight known occasions, according to police.

“The defendant openly admitted to having oral and vaginal sex with the victim on eight occasions,” said Cpl. Bunyak in the affidavit.

Askins remained in the Venango County Jail on $100,000 cash bail as of late Tuesday.

Askins faces a preliminary hearing at 8:30 a.m., Wednesday, May 10 in Venango County Central Court.

Due to the nature of the allegations, Askins has been placed on unpaid, administrative leave by the school district.

Askins is a 2010 graduate of Franklin High School.