A disturbing case involving an Indiana educator has shocked the local community as allegations of sexual misconduct continue to emerge.

According to Daily Mail, Brittany Fortinberry, 31, faces multiple charges after allegedly requesting three underage boys to wear Scream masks during a sexual assault, among other serious accusations.

The investigation has uncovered a pattern of predatory behavior, with police reports indicating Fortinberry provided drugs, alcohol, and expensive gifts to multiple victims. Her husband, Nicholas Fortinberry, also faces charges for allegedly threatening victims and failing to report the crimes.

Details of Predatory Grooming Pattern Emerge

Investigators discovered Fortinberry's alleged grooming methods included showering potential victims with costly football-related gifts and persistently messaging them on Snapchat. One victim's mother became suspicious after learning about charges against Fortinberry at Eminence High School. Upon questioning her son, he revealed disturbing details about his interactions with the teacher.

Detective Sergeant Patrick Williams of Morgan County Sheriff's Office documented how Fortinberry allegedly provided victims with various substances. The teacher would reportedly pressure reluctant victims into taking mushroom-laced peanut butter sandwiches to mask the taste. Witness statements indicate she used phrases like "just let it happen" when boys showed hesitation.

The investigation found that Fortinberry allegedly spent hundreds of dollars on marijuana, vaping devices, and clothing for multiple victims. Her calculated approach involved gaining trust through gifts before escalating to inappropriate contact.

Serious Criminal Allegations Surface

The most serious incident described in police documents involved Fortinberry allegedly picking up three 13-year-old boys from a mall. After securing parental permission for a sleepover, she reportedly made disturbing demands of the minors. According to the affidavit, she required them to wear the iconic black and white "Ghostface" masks from the Scream horror movie franchise during the assault.

One victim's mother reported discovering explicit video content Fortinberry had sent to her son. The investigation uncovered that Fortinberry allegedly told victims she would perform inappropriate acts while looking at their school photos. Police documentation shows she maintained a stripper pole in her home.

Detective Williams noted in his report that during questioning, Fortinberry made unusual statements about her weight loss. She allegedly expressed regret about losing 150 pounds, suggesting she would have behaved differently if still heavier.

Husband's Alleged Role in Cover-up

Nicholas Fortinberry's involvement deepened the case's complexity. Victims reported he was aware of the abuse and made threats to ensure their silence. According to police documents, he allegedly told victims he would "slaughter" them in front of their families if they spoke about the incidents.

One victim's statement indicates Nicholas Fortinberry suggested waiting until they were 16 years old. This conversation allegedly occurred around the time of the most serious incident. His actions led to charges of intimidation and failure to report a crime.

The investigation revealed Nicholas Fortinberry's alleged threats created an atmosphere of fear that prevented victims from coming forward sooner. Multiple victims reported similar accounts of his intimidation tactics.

Current Status and Legal Proceedings

Eminence schools took immediate action upon learning of the allegations in August 2024. Brittany Fortinberry was suspended from her teaching position and submitted her resignation the following day. The quick response aimed to protect students and maintain educational integrity.

Five additional victims have come forward since the initial investigation began. Their testimonies have resulted in numerous additional charges being recommended against both Brittany and Nicholas Fortinberry. The expanding case continues to reveal new details about the scope of alleged crimes.

Lessons to Learn from This Tragedy

1. Understand the signs: Educate oneself and others about the coercive tactics predators might use, such as providing drugs or alcohol to minors.

2. Encourage open communication: Foster an environment where children can discuss uncomfortable situations without fear, just as the initial victim did with his mother.

3. Immediate reporting is crucial: Emphasize the importance of reporting suspicious activities quickly to prevent further harm.

However, it's paramount to remember that despite all precautions, crime can still occur and victims are never at fault.

Why This Story Matters

This case highlights the critical importance of vigilance and transparency within educational institutions and underscores the potential double life that individuals in positions of trust might lead. It stresses the community's role in safeguarding and supporting victims while holding perpetrators accountable.

Case Summary and Next Steps

Brittany Fortinberry, a former Indiana teacher, faces dozens of charges related to alleged sexual assaults of underage boys at Eminence High School. The investigation revealed disturbing details about her alleged methods, including providing drugs and alcohol to minors, sending explicit content, and orchestrating a serious assault involving Scream masks.

The case continues to develop as more victims come forward with similar accounts of grooming and assault. Both Brittany and Nicholas Fortinberry await legal proceedings, with Nicholas facing separate charges for his alleged role in threatening victims to maintain their silence. Law enforcement officials remain committed to thoroughly investigating all allegations while protecting the victims' privacy and well-being.