Chicago Public Schools watchdog closes Hilario Dominguez investigation with “no actionable finding” of misconduct

The Chicago Public Schools watchdog has concluded an investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct against Hilario Dominguez, a candidate for school board president, and found no actionable evidence of misconduct, according to the source. The investigation, which reopened earlier this year after a former student came forward with her claims, concluded on Wednesday that Dominguez did not violate CPS policy or guidelines in the 2018 incident.

The former student, who wished to remain anonymous, provided Chalkbeat and Block Club Chicago with a copy of a letter confirming the findings from the district’s Office of Student Protections. Dominguez, a former CPS teacher and CTU-backed candidate, described the investigation's outcome as a "decade-old smear" intended to damage his failed 2019 alderman campaign.

The investigation found that Dominguez had inappropriately inquired about a minor participant's dating life, commented on her appearance, and offered her rides home. Dominguez's campaign released a statement expressing disappointment in the outcome but emphasizing the importance of due process and accountability. Mayor Brandon Johnson praised the watchdog's swift closure of the investigation, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging victims' experiences and encouraging them to come forward.

The case has become a significant issue in the upcoming school board election, with Dominguez facing a high-stakes three-way race for the position of school board president.