A former high school physical education teacher now faces serious allegations, indicted on two counts of third-degree sexual assault. The charges stem from accusations of an inappropriate relationship with a student while he was a minor, a betrayal of trust that has shaken the community.
The investigation began with a formal complaint filed with Rhode Island State Police in October, detailing a disturbing pattern of behavior. The former student alleged a series of escalating interactions with Alisha Crins, beginning with seemingly innocuous requests and evolving into deeply inappropriate contact.
The initial contact reportedly started with text messages, discovered after the student’s phone number was allegedly found online. What began as a request for help with personal tasks quickly morphed into frequent communication, extending beyond school-related matters and into the realm of social media.
According to the student’s account, the relationship took a troubling turn during his junior year. He described a pattern of compliments focused on his appearance, culminating in a request to borrow his jersey during a school pep rally – a gesture he now views as deeply unsettling.
The alleged encounters grew increasingly intimate, beginning with a kiss inside his vehicle during a meeting near the teacher’s home. The student alleges a later encounter involved physical contact in the back seat of his car, though he maintains he did not engage in sexual intercourse.
The alleged assaults occurred over a three-month period, between April and June of this year. The details, as outlined in an affidavit, paint a picture of a power imbalance exploited for personal gratification, a devastating breach of professional ethics.
When questioned by investigators, Crins admitted to flirting and exchanging sexually suggestive text messages, acknowledging the presence of “sexual innuendos” in their conversations. She also confessed to sending photos and videos, and admitted discussing future sexual encounters once the student reached the age of 18.
However, Crins denied any “physical” contact beyond a single kiss, contradicting the student’s allegations of more extensive encounters. Despite her denials, the evidence presented led to her indictment on the serious charges she now faces.
Crins resigned from her position at Ponaganset High School on October 1st, 2025, according to the Foster-Glocester Regional School District. The district has stated its full cooperation with the ongoing investigation, deferring further comment to state police.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities inherent in relationships between educators and students, and the devastating consequences when boundaries are crossed. The investigation continues as authorities seek to uncover the full extent of the alleged misconduct.
