Cincinnati Assistant Principal Charged With Sexual Battery

Cincinnati Public Schools assistant principal Steven Barton, 43, of Aiken New Tech High School, is charged with one count of sexual battery for allegedly engaging in sexual conduct with a 16-year-old student. Police say Barton touched the student with his exposed hand for several minutes, with the case supported by surveillance video and his own statements. Prosecutors allege he groomed the student during the 2025-26 school year before the incident. Barton was booked Aug. 28 with a bond set at $75,000 and has been removed from duty, with no contact with students while investigations proceed. The case has been referred to a Hamilton County grand jury for potential indictment and could bring additional charges. Multiple Cincinnati outlets are reporting on the investigation, CPS statements, and ongoing district and police actions surrounding the case.