Substitute Teacher at Columbus Charter School Accused in Murder-for-Hire Plot Involving Student
A high school substitute teacher at the Academy for Urban Scholars in East Columbus has been arrested after allegedly attempting to hire a student to kill her estranged husband.
According to court documents, 44-year-old Stephanie Demetrius offered a student $2,000 to carry out the murder, providing a $250 down payment and detailed instructions about the intended victim’s schedule. Investigators obtained digital evidence, including a phone recording where Demetrius confirmed payment details and discussed logistics, allegedly stating, “The neighbors don’t care about the gunfire.”
The plot was uncovered when the student’s mother found suspicious messages and contacted the police. Columbus Police say the relationship between Demetrius and the student extended beyond school, suggesting ongoing communication outside of class.
Further reports revealed a troubling history involving Demetrius and her estranged husband, including multiple violations of a protection order. Allegations include attempts to set his house on fire, letting his dog loose, and even trying to stab or run him over.
Demetrius, listed as a registered substitute teacher in Ohio’s education database, has been charged with felony conspiracy. She is being held on a $150,000 bond and is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on April 11.
Police praised the student’s mother for her vigilance. “Without her stepping in, this could have taken a very different turn,” said Sgt. James Fuqua. No charges have been filed against the student.
