House candidate Trussell: CPS administrator abused student 'for several years'

Stephanie Trussell, a candidate for Illinois House District 42, has brought attention to allegations against a former Chicago Public Schools (CPS) administrator. Trussell said that the administrator sexually abused a student under his supervision for several years.

"CPS administrator abused a student for several years," said Trussell. "Crowder posed as her stepfather so that she could get 2 abortions while she was in high school and underage. A third, happened after she left high school."

According to reports, the allegations involve Robert Crowder, a former CPS administrator accused of abusing a minor student over an extended period. This case has prompted renewed scrutiny of how CPS handles staff misconduct.

Chicago Public Schools has been embroiled in multiple scandals concerning employee misconduct. A 2023 report from the Office of Inspector General highlighted hundreds of allegations of sexual abuse or misconduct by staff members between 2021 and 2023.

Illinois law requires educators and administrators to be "mandated reporters" of suspected child abuse or neglect. Failure to fulfill this duty can lead to criminal charges and the permanent loss of teaching or administrative certification.

Trussell is known as a conservative radio host and political activist who was the Republican nominee for lieutenant governor of Illinois in 2022. She is recognized for her advocacy on family values and government accountability, remaining active in state and local policy issues.