New Jersey Teacher Denied Bail in Aggravated Sexual Assault Case

Ashley Fisler, a 36-year-old social studies teacher at Orchard Valley Middle School in Washington, New Jersey, was denied bail on Wednesday following a hearing regarding charges of aggravated sexual assault.

Details of the Allegations

Fisler is accused of engaging in sexual activity with a student six times between the ages of 13 and 14. Prosecutors allege the relationship continued with years of sexting, ending only when the now-adult victim reported the incidents to police in January.

Judge Cites Risk to Community

Judge William Ziegler ruled that Fisler posed a risk to the community if released pending trial. He stated the evidence suggested she “was able to surreptitiously keep this relationship between herself and the victim…that is, she hid the relationship from her husband, other people and all others, and continued this relationship knowing his precise age.”

Prosecution Presents Evidence

During the bail hearing, prosecutor Kylie Finley presented evidence consisting of approximately 7,500 pages of text message exchanges. Finley described these exchanges as demonstrating six years of “grooming, manipulation and abuse” against the victim.

Fisler's Reaction

Appearing via video conference from jail, Fisler reportedly became emotional upon hearing the judge’s decision. She covered her mouth with her hands and wiped away tears. She is charged with first-degree aggravated sexual assault.