Florida teacher found guilty of drugging and sexually assaulting foreign exchange student

Former high school teacher Dmitri Kostyunin was found guilty of child sex crimes against an Italian foreign exchange student who had been staying with him in Mount Dora, Florida. He was convicted of sexual battery, contributing to the delinquency of a minor, and delivery of cannabis to a person under 18. Kostyunin will be sentenced at a later date for his crimes.

The incident came to light when the Italian student reported Kostyunin’s crimes to family members back home, who then alerted law enforcement. Lake County Sheriff’s Office detectives went to Apopka High School to speak with the victim, as Kostyunin had been working as the student’s foreign exchange provider since August 2023. The victim revealed that Kostyunin provided them with cannabis-infused chocolates and alcohol while they watched a movie, where Kostyunin tried to give them a massage and then proceeded to perform sex acts on the victim despite their refusal.

Kostyunin later admitted to authorities that he had provided the juvenile with cannabis-infused candy, as well as wine and beer. He claimed to have blacked out but acknowledged that he had made a mistake. He was subsequently arrested by the police and booked into the Lake County Jail. The state attorney for the Fifth Judicial Circuit, Bill Gladson, emphasized that Kostyunin’s actions not only violated the trust placed in him but also endangered the well-being of a child within the community. Gladson expressed regret that the victim’s experiences and memories during the foreign exchange program would forever be tarnished by Kostyunin’s actions.

The case highlights the importance of safeguarding minors and ensuring their protection against predatory behavior. It serves as a reminder of the potential dangers that vulnerable individuals, such as foreign exchange students, may face when placed in the care of individuals who abuse their position of authority. The legal proceedings and conviction of Kostyunin underscore the accountability and consequences that perpetrators of child sex crimes must face for their actions.

The incident involving Kostyunin and the Italian foreign exchange student underscores the need for vigilance and oversight in overseeing programs that involve minors or vulnerable individuals. Proper screening, monitoring, and reporting mechanisms should be in place to prevent instances of abuse and exploitation. It also highlights the importance of prompt action by law enforcement and authorities in responding to reports of misconduct and ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable for their actions.

The case serves as a cautionary tale about the potential risks that can arise when individuals in positions of authority violate their trust and engage in criminal behavior. It serves as a reminder of the importance of fostering a safe and secure environment for minors, particularly when they are in unfamiliar or vulnerable situations. By holding perpetrators accountable and raising awareness about the need to protect children from harm, communities can work towards ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals, especially those who are most at risk.