Former Substitute Teacher Pleads Guilty to Child Aggravated Battery

A former substitute teacher for the Chicago Archdiocese, Brett Smith, has pleaded guilty to aggravated battery of a child, a felony, in connection with his inappropriate conduct with a 9-year-old boy he was hired to tutor in Orland Park. Smith, 43, had initially faced felony charges of aggravated sexual abuse of a minor and wire fraud in Cook County, but these were dismissed under a plea agreement with prosecutors.

During a hearing, Judge Steven Rosenblum allowed the alleged victim to testify through closed-circuit television after considering the potential trauma to the young boy. Smith was sentenced to two years of probation and is required to register as a violent offender against youth.

Judge Rosenblum expressed concerns about Smith’s repeated inappropriate actions over time and emphasized that the sentencing aims to prevent further offenses. Smith is prohibited from any activities involving children, including teaching, tutoring, and coaching, while under probation.

The plea deal was partly motivated by efforts to avoid traumatizing the victim and other witnesses expected to testify at the trial. The child’s father shared a statement about the emotional toll on his son, describing sleepless nights and struggles to support his child after such an ordeal.

The prosecutors highlighted concerns for the child’s mental health, expressing that testifying in court could result in further distress for the victim. Smith’s attorney, Steven A. Greenberg, requested a forensic examination to assess potential emotional distress.

Smith’s history showed he worked at multiple schools on Chicago’s South Side and in south suburbs, including Queen of Martyrs Catholic School, where he faced other allegations. The school, citing enrollment declines, announced plans for closure in 2026.

Prosecutors accused Smith of rubbing the child’s back under his shirt, causing scratches during 14 tutoring sessions. The child also noted Smith placing items on his groin area, prompting uncomfortable interactions.

Smith had previously faced accusations of unwanted physical contact in schools. His past behavior raised concerns, leading to an examination of his actions in Orland Park after a bank payment exposed his identity.

After news surfaced about past allegations against Smith, the archdiocese barred him from its schools, confirming his termination.