ETHS Security Guard Charged With Sexual Assault: Evanston Police

EVANSTON, IL — Police said a security guard at Evanston Township High School has been charged with a sex offense in connection with an off-campus incident last year. Nearly five weeks ago, Evanston police opened an investigation after school staff reported receiving an allegation that a staff member had an improper relationship involving "inappropriate contact" with a 17-year-old girl.

Michael Haywood, 33, of the 1800 block of Darrow Avenue, Evanston, was identified as the accused staff member, police said. He faces one count of criminal sexual assault by a person in a position of authority.

Investigators determined there had been an encounter between Haywood and the student on Nov. 23 in the 1800 block of Dodge Avenue that "rose to the level" of sexual assault, according to Cmdr. Ryan Glew. He declined to offer any specifics about whether it occurred in a home but said the incident did not take place during school hours or in school property. The location is about a block north of campus.

In recent weeks Evanston police tried repeatedly to make contact with Haywood. On Tuesday, he turned himself in at the Evanston Police Department with an attorney. He declined to be interviewed by police.

ETHS Communications Director Takumi Iseda did not immediately respond to queries regarding Haywood's employment with the school. Police said he was employed in the school's security department.

UPDATE: Ex-ETHS Staffer Accused Of Sex With Student Ordered Held Without Bond