Ankeny teacher, softball coach pleads not guilty in sex abuse case
A local teacher and coach accused of having an inappropriate relationship with a student is pleading not guilty.
Rachel Whiteside was arrested in February for sex abuse, lascivious conduct, and sexual exploitation by a school employee. Court documents show she pleaded not guilty to those charges Wednesday.
Whiteside was working for the Ankeny Community School District at the time of her arrest. She's no longer listed on the district's website.
According to police, the investigation started when the victim reported their relationship to the district. That victim told investigators Whiteside had kissed them when they were 14 years old and initiated sexual intercourse with them.
Court filings allege this happened at Northview Middle School after school hours starting in 2015.
Whiteside is expected back in court for a hearing early next month.
Her trial is set for the start of June.
