Boy, 9, Raped By Local School Teaching Assistant: Seattle Police

SEATTLE, WA - A former teaching assistant at John Muir Elementary allegedly raped a 9-year-old student several times during the 2016-17 school year, according to prosecutors. Albert Verachi-Smith, 40, is facing a charge of first-degree child rape, according to court records.

Verachi-Smith was arrested in the Rainier Beach neighborhood on Feb. 1 after the victim told his parents about the alleged abuse. The student told police the first rape happened when he was alone in the boys' restroom. Verachi-Smith allegedly approached the student from behind while the student was at the urinal.

The student told police he was raped "five to six times" over the school year.

During one rape, Verachi-Smith allegedly threatened to hurt the student and his family if the student ever told anyone about the assaults. Verachi-Smith allegedly punched the student during one rape, according to court records.

The student came forward to his parents only after Verachi-Smith had been absent from school, according to court records. Verachi-Smith had been placed on administrative leave by the school because of a separate issue, according to records.

Verachi-Smith is being held on $500,000 bond and has a Feb. 15 arraignment date.

John Muir Principal Brenda Ball Cuthbertson sent a letter to parents about the allegations. She said Seattle police detectives might need to speak with other students. She said Verachi-Smith was terminated immediately following the student's report.

"This is difficult news, and we understand you will want to talk to your child about this case. We want to do everything possible to help the police conduct a thorough investigation," she wrote.

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