Married Teacher Gets 14-Year Prison Sentence for Sexual Abuse of Teen Inmate
A married teacher who sexually abused a troubled teenager at a Kentucky juvenile detention center and then asked him to kill her husband has been sentenced to more than a decade behind bars.
Elena Bardin, 27 years old, received a 14-year prison term after a jury found her guilty of first-degree sexual abuse and unlawful transaction with a minor. The conviction stemmed from her explicit sexual contact with a 17-year-old boy at the Adair County Juvenile Detention Center, where she worked as an English teacher.
Shocking Discovery of Explicit Letters and Photos
The case came to light in April when authorities conducted a routine search of the teenage victim's room at the detention facility. Investigators uncovered approximately 193 sexually explicit letters and photographs that Bardin had allegedly sent to the minor.
Circuit Judge Samuel Spalding addressed the nature of these communications during Thursday's sentencing hearing, stating: "The letters you sent, they were juicy, they were things you'd see in a triple-x movie, and completely inappropriate, obviously, and I think you know that for a young man that age."
The judge further emphasized Bardin's professional responsibilities, noting: "For an educator, it was incumbent upon you to set a better example. I will say though, the 193 pages of letters, pictures, everything else, it depicts a very intelligent and articulate young woman who was clearly articulating her thoughts and desires to this kid."
Ignored Warnings and Continued Misconduct
Court proceedings revealed that Bardin's supervisor had previously warned her to end the inappropriate relationship and stay away from the teenage inmate. At one point, detention center officials even moved the boy to another section of the facility in an attempt to separate them.
Judge Spalding expressed serious concern about Bardin's response to these interventions, stating: "And ma'am, not only did you not heed that advice and stop, it looks to me like you actually doubled down on the behavior after that, and that is concerning."
The judge characterized their illicit relationship as merely a "way to kill time while he was locked up," highlighting the power imbalance and exploitation involved.
Despite being accused of soliciting the teenager to murder her husband, the jury acquitted Bardin of that specific charge. The mother of a five-year-old girl chose not to testify during the two-day trial that preceded her sentencing.
In addition to her prison term, Bardin will be required to register as a sex offender for 20 years, ensuring continued monitoring and restrictions following her release from custody.
