An Ohio substitute teacher, Stephanie Demetrius, allegedly offered a student $2,000 to kill her estranged husband, a plot revealed through text messages discovered by the student's mother.

The shocking murder-for-hire scheme, initiated on March 26 at The Academy For Urban Scholars High School in Columbus, has led to charges of first-degree conspiracy against Demetrius, who is now barred from contacting both the student and her husband. The case raises serious concerns over student safety and the responsibilities of educational professionals, especially given Demetrius's troubled history, which includes previous threats and mental health issues.

The events unfolded when Demetrius allegedly approached the student with the proposition, offering a $2,000 payment to carry out the murder. The deal reportedly included an immediate cash payment of $250 as a down payment, with the promise of the remaining sum after the act was completed.

Compounding the situation, the plot came to light due to the vigilance of the student's mother. She discovered text messages exchanged between Demetrius and her child, which prompted her to bring the matter to law enforcement. Authorities soon initiated an investigation after being alerted to the troubling conversation.

Further scrutiny revealed that Demetrius had also engaged in a recorded phone call with the student, discussing operational details of the crime. During this conversation, she stressed to the student that local neighbors would likely not react to the sound of gunfire, indicating a disturbing level of planning regarding the alleged murder.

Demetrius's background raises additional concerns. She has previously been accused of making threats and has a history of violence, specifically noted for assaulting her estranged husband. Her history includes ongoing mental health challenges, which have emerged as a significant factor in her recent actions, leading authorities to question her fitness for her role as an educator.

In light of the severe allegations, Demetrius faced charges of first-degree conspiracy to commit murder. She appeared in Franklin County Municipal Court and was subsequently released on a $150,000 bond. The original conditions set forth during her release include barring her from contacting her husband and the student involved in the case.

A preliminary hearing for Demetrius has been scheduled for April 11. This forthcoming hearing will address the charges brought against her and assess the evidence collected during the investigation. The case has garnered considerable attention from the local community and media outlets, emphasizing the unexpected involvement of a teacher in such a serious criminal proposition.

The incident has prompted discussions among school officials and local law enforcement about safeguarding students from potential risks. Questions are being raised about policies currently in place to monitor the conduct of educators, particularly those dealing with issues of mental health, safety, and interpersonal conflicts that could have implications within a school setting.

As the case develops, it highlights the serious nature of the allegations against substitute teacher Stephanie Demetrius, who is accused of offering a student $2,000 to kill her estranged husband. This incident raises concerns about the safety of students in educational environments.