Louisiana teacher's aide charged with raping 12-year-old student

On Saturday, a former teacher's aide at Stella Worley Middle School in Westwego, Louisiana was arrested and charged with first-degree rape. She is accused of having an inappropriate relationship with a 12-year-old student, and allegedly forcing him to perform oral sex on her.

The relationship between the minor and Canales reportedly began in the spring of last year, when Canales was employed at Stella Worley Middle School as a paraprofessional.

According to NOLA.com, an adult overheard the student discussing his relationship with 22-year-old Sophia Canales as well as the alleged rape, and told his parents.

The attorney for the family, Artis G. Ulmer III, said that beginning in April of May or last year, Canales "groomed" the student, claiming that she "used her position as a [paraprofessional], a position of authority, to convince him that she could be trusted."

There were numerous examples of Canales attempting to get close to the student, including CashApp transactions as well as gifts such as food orders and Playstation games.

The pair were seen privately together in photos on the student's phone. She also allegedly sent him voicemail messages.

Jefferson Parish Schools noted that while Canales had worked as a teacher's aide in 2021, she was no longer employed by the district.

A spokesperson added that officials are cooperating with local authorities as the investigation continues.

Canales was arrested for "sexual contact with a juvenile," which translates to first degree rape, given that the alleged victim was under thirteen years of age. If convicted, she could face life in prison.

She is currently held at a detention facility in Gretna, Louisiana without bail.