A former northeast Nebraska teacher convicted of sexually assaulting a student has been sentenced to 18 to 25 years in prison.
John Hoffman was sentenced Tuesday in Knox County District Court. He had earlier pleaded no contest to a charge of sexual assault of a child.
Authorities say the 30-year-old Hoffman had a sexual relationship with a 14-year-old student. Hoffman was a teacher for the Bloomfield Community Schools at the time.
Hoffman was arrested in April after authorities searched his home and found evidence supporting the teenager's accusations.
Information from: KNEN-FM, http://www.knenfm.com
Showing posts with label Teacher. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Teacher. Show all posts
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Teacher Deanna Higgins Charged with Sexual Assault
A Spring High School teacher has been accused of having an improper relationship with a student, KPRC Local 2 reported Tuesday.
Science teacher Deanna Higgins has been charged with having an improper relationship between an educator and a student and sexual assault of a child. Both charges are second-degree felonies.
Higgins has been a science teacher at the school since January 2008. She is on administrative leave from the school.
Principal Donna Ullrich sent a letter home to parents to alert them to the situation.
"I want to assure you that the safety of our students is of the highest importance," she said. "Inappropriate behavior with our students will never be tolerated or overlooked."
Ullrich said a second teacher is also on administrative leave in a separate issue. She said she could not release details about that case until the investigation is complete.
Spring ISD released the following statement.
"Incidents involving improper relationships between teachers and students are not tolerated in Spring ISD. We have made it our practice to take allegations of this nature seriously. We will investigate thoroughly any report we receive and pursue criminal charges when appropriate."
-----------------------------------
http://www.myfoxhouston.com/dpp/news/local/091013_spring_teacher_charged
Science teacher Deanna Higgins has been charged with having an improper relationship between an educator and a student and sexual assault of a child. Both charges are second-degree felonies.
Higgins has been a science teacher at the school since January 2008. She is on administrative leave from the school.
Principal Donna Ullrich sent a letter home to parents to alert them to the situation.
"I want to assure you that the safety of our students is of the highest importance," she said. "Inappropriate behavior with our students will never be tolerated or overlooked."
Ullrich said a second teacher is also on administrative leave in a separate issue. She said she could not release details about that case until the investigation is complete.
Spring ISD released the following statement.
"Incidents involving improper relationships between teachers and students are not tolerated in Spring ISD. We have made it our practice to take allegations of this nature seriously. We will investigate thoroughly any report we receive and pursue criminal charges when appropriate."
-----------------------------------
http://www.myfoxhouston.com/dpp/news/local/091013_spring_teacher_charged
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Music Teacher James Jordan Arrested for Lewd Act with Child
A music teacher in Sacramento has been arrested for allegedly abusing young children, and authorities believe there are other victims who haven't yet come forward.
James Charles Jordan, 53, was arrested on Saturday and charged with six counts of lewd acts upon a child under 14 years old. The Sacramento County Sheriff's Department says Jordan is a music minister for a local church and gives private piano and organ lessons to children.
Because of Jordan's close contact with kids, detectives say they believe there is a "high probability" there are victims that haven't come forward yet.
Anyone with information on this case is asked to call Sheriff's child abuse detectives at (916) 874-8002.
Friday, October 2, 2009
Paul Bess Charged with Aggravated Sexual Battery
A Suffolk teacher's assistant is accused of sexually assaulting a 7-year-old child.
Police say Paul Andrew Bess, 59, turned himself following his indicment on charges of aggravated sexual battery and indecent liberties with a child.
Bess is alleged to have sexually assaulted the child at Nansemond Parkway Elementary School in June.
Bess is on admininstrative leave from his job there, according to officials.
He was hired by Suffolk Schools in August 2006 and a "successful background check was completed. He has since had exemplary evaluations,” according to spokeswoman Bethanne Bradshaw.
Bess is being held in Western Tidewater Regional Jail with no bond.
In a letter to parents Monday, principal Keith Hubbard said the Department of Social Services had conducted an investigation into this alleged incident in August and determined that the charges were unfounded.
He also made sure parents knew counselors are available if needed.
PRINCIPAL'S LETTER TO PARENTS:
October 5, 2009
Dear Parents & Guardians:
Student safety is a top priority in Suffolk Public Schools, and we want to keep families informed of situations as soon as we are able.
As you may be aware from media coverage, a teacher assistant here, Paul Bess, has been charged with aggravated sexual battery. The alleged incident was reported by a student to have happened in June during school hours. Because of the arrest, Bess has been placed on administrative leave until the allegations are resolved through the judicial system. At the time he was hired in August 2006, a successful background check was completed, and he has since had exemplary evaluations.
In August, the Department of Social Services conducted an investigation into this alleged incident and determined that the charges were unfounded.
I know as a parent such an allegation is troubling. The school works diligently to provide a quality education for all children, and to maintain a safe learning environment where students can trust the adults responsible for their care. In light of this incident, you might find an opportunity to talk with your child about these sensitive issues. If you feel your child would benefit from talking to a guidance counselor now or in the future, please call the school at 923-4167 and share your concerns.
Thank you for your concern and your efforts to keep Nansemond Parkway Elementary School a safe school.
Sincerely,
Keith Hubbard
Principal,
Nansemond Parkway Elementary School
--http://hamptonroads.com/2009/10/suffolk-teachers-aide-charged-sex-assault----------------------------
Police say Paul Andrew Bess, 59, turned himself following his indicment on charges of aggravated sexual battery and indecent liberties with a child.
Bess is alleged to have sexually assaulted the child at Nansemond Parkway Elementary School in June.
Bess is on admininstrative leave from his job there, according to officials.
He was hired by Suffolk Schools in August 2006 and a "successful background check was completed. He has since had exemplary evaluations,” according to spokeswoman Bethanne Bradshaw.
Bess is being held in Western Tidewater Regional Jail with no bond.
In a letter to parents Monday, principal Keith Hubbard said the Department of Social Services had conducted an investigation into this alleged incident in August and determined that the charges were unfounded.
He also made sure parents knew counselors are available if needed.
PRINCIPAL'S LETTER TO PARENTS:
October 5, 2009
Dear Parents & Guardians:
Student safety is a top priority in Suffolk Public Schools, and we want to keep families informed of situations as soon as we are able.
As you may be aware from media coverage, a teacher assistant here, Paul Bess, has been charged with aggravated sexual battery. The alleged incident was reported by a student to have happened in June during school hours. Because of the arrest, Bess has been placed on administrative leave until the allegations are resolved through the judicial system. At the time he was hired in August 2006, a successful background check was completed, and he has since had exemplary evaluations.
In August, the Department of Social Services conducted an investigation into this alleged incident and determined that the charges were unfounded.
I know as a parent such an allegation is troubling. The school works diligently to provide a quality education for all children, and to maintain a safe learning environment where students can trust the adults responsible for their care. In light of this incident, you might find an opportunity to talk with your child about these sensitive issues. If you feel your child would benefit from talking to a guidance counselor now or in the future, please call the school at 923-4167 and share your concerns.
Thank you for your concern and your efforts to keep Nansemond Parkway Elementary School a safe school.
Sincerely,
Keith Hubbard
Principal,
Nansemond Parkway Elementary School
--http://hamptonroads.com/2009/10/suffolk-teachers-aide-charged-sex-assault----------------------------
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Wendy Cannin Arrested for Having Sexual Contact with Teens
It was the first day of school in Heppner today, but instead of spending it in the classroom, a junior/senior high teacher spent it in jail.
Wendy Cannin, 30, was arrested at 11 a.m. when Morrow County sheriff’s detectives arrived at her Heppner home, authorities said.
Cannin, a teacher in the Morrow County School District for two years, had been put on leave last week after officials learned about the sheriff’s office’s investigation.
Cannin is accused of having inappropriate sexual contact with two teenage boys, the sheriff’s office said.
The sexual activity allegedly occurred before the end of the last school year and continued during the summer until the middle of July.
The sexual contact occurred both on and off school property, authorities said.
Cannin was booked into the Umatilla County jail on suspicion of one count of sexual misconduct, four counts of third-degree sex abuse, and one count each of third-degree rape and third-degree sodomy.
A grand jury is expected to hear the allegations against Cannin tomorrow.
Wendy Cannin, 30, was arrested at 11 a.m. when Morrow County sheriff’s detectives arrived at her Heppner home, authorities said.
Cannin, a teacher in the Morrow County School District for two years, had been put on leave last week after officials learned about the sheriff’s office’s investigation.
Cannin is accused of having inappropriate sexual contact with two teenage boys, the sheriff’s office said.
The sexual activity allegedly occurred before the end of the last school year and continued during the summer until the middle of July.
The sexual contact occurred both on and off school property, authorities said.
Cannin was booked into the Umatilla County jail on suspicion of one count of sexual misconduct, four counts of third-degree sex abuse, and one count each of third-degree rape and third-degree sodomy.
A grand jury is expected to hear the allegations against Cannin tomorrow.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
David Fisher Arrested for Sexual Child Abuse
Mayes County deputies arrested the principal of Choteau Elementary on Tuesday.
According to Sheriff Frank Cantey, David Fisher is being held on three counts of sexual child abuse.
Sheriff Cantey says the suspected abuse occured during the 2003-2004 school year. A then-13-year-old girl made the accusations against Fisher.
Fisher had been a teacher, bus driver and coach at Mazie Elementary at the time. This year he took the principal position at Chouteau Elementary.
Monday, August 17, 2009
Melissa Huckaby Indicted for Kidnapping, Raping & Killing 8-year-old
A grand jury has indicted a Sunday school teacher on charges she kidnapped, raped and killed an 8-year-old girl and drugged two other people.
Melissa Huckaby broke down in tears Monday as Superior Court Judge Linda Lofthus read the indictment against her. The reading came after prosecutors convened a grand jury last month to determine whether Huckaby would stand trial.
Lofthus said the grand jury transcript would remain sealed. No trial date has been set.
Huckaby, 28, is accused of killing 8-year-old Sandra Cantu, a playmate of Huckaby's young daughter. Sandra went missing in March in Tracy, her hometown in Northern California. A massive search for her ended 10 days later when her body was found stuffed in a black suitcase pulled from an irrigation pond near the mobile home park where she lived.
Defense attorney Sam Behar asked Lofthus to delay setting a trial date, saying he has not read the indictment or lengthy transcript because he's in the middle of another trial.
But Deputy District Attorney Thomas Testa said he delivered a copy of the indictment to Behar's office earlier this month. "He's had a lot of time to read this indictment," Testa told Lofthus.
The judge then proceeded to read the indictment charges to a weeping Huckaby, who appeared in court with two fresh scratches above her right eyebrow. Neither Behar nor Testa would comment on the nature of Huckaby's injuries after Monday's hearing. A gag order barring attorneys, investigators and potential witnesses from commenting on the case remains in effect.
Huckaby in June pleaded not guilty to killing Sandra as well as to charges that she previously had drugged a 7-year-old girl and a 37-year-old man, whom police believe she had been dating. The girl and Huckaby lived in the same mobile park.
Huckaby is charged with two counts of furnishing someone a harmful substance and one count of child endangerment in the drugging cases.
In the case involving Sandra Cantu, Huckaby is charged with murder with the special circumstances of rape, kidnapping and lewd or lascivious conduct with a child under 14, which could make her eligible for the death penalty if convicted. Sandra was last seen on a surveillance camera skipping near her home just five doors down from the defendant.
On Monday, Huckaby entered the courtroom smiling, but her demeanor became tearful and somber as the indictment was read and debate on her next court appearance ensued.
Testa said the district attorney's office is treating the case as if it will be a death penalty case, but no decision is expected for at least two months.
Prosecutors convened a grand jury instead of holding a preliminary hearing in the case to ensure a speedy trial and avoid a possible change of venue. Testa also told Lofthus he wants a speedy trial because the case involves minors and should be made a priority.
Lofthus countered that it would be premature to set a trial within 30 days because Behar had not seen the indictment or the voluminous grand jury testimony.
"We need to do the case one time, and we need to have the case done right," the judge said. "The defense needs time to prepare."
Lofthus then scheduled a Sept. 10 hearing to discuss possible trial dates. Huckaby remains in the San Joaquin County Jail without bail.
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Gunnery School Student Sues Over Sexual Abuse Allegations
Legal news information for Connecticut personal injury attorney’s. Gunnery School student claims the dean of students sexually abused him.
Torrington, CT—The family of a student who claims he was sexually abused at The Gunnery School in Washington, Connecticut filed a lawsuit on Monday, August 10, 2009. The lawsuit was filed in the Superior Court in New London, as reported by the Courant.
The alleged sexually assaulted victim, John Doe, claims he was assaulted on numerous occasions during his freshman year at The Gunnery School, from September 2007 to June 2008. Doe says he suffered from emotional distress and has a fear of attending school. The personal injury lawsuit names the former dean of students, Robert Reinhardt, 44; the head of school, Susan Graham; and a teacher, Dana Jackson. Reinhardt apparently was also the crew coach, a teacher, and a “dorm parent”, according to the lawsuit. The lawsuit further alleges Reinhardt had an on-campus apartment, where he frequently had minors over at his residence late at night, overnight, and early in the morning. In addition, the lawsuit says the boarding school was aware, or should have been aware of the inappropriate activities surrounding Reinhardt and the alleged victim. The school is also accused of neglecting to quickly respond to the sexual abuse allegations.
The Gunnery School released a statement saying, “We reported this information to the Connecticut state child welfare authorities immediately. The faculty member in question had left the school’s employment.” On August 5, 2009, Reinhardt surrendered to state police and was charged with second-degree sexual assault. He was also charged with two counts of risk of injury to a minor, and his bail was set at $750,000. Reinhardt’s next court date is scheduled for September 1st at the Superior Court in Litchfield.
According to Wikipedia http://www.wikipedia.org
“The Gunnery School is a coeducational boarding and day Prep school for 295 students in grades nine through twelve. The Gunnery was founded in 1850 by Frederick W. Gunn, a teacher, abolitionist, and father of recreational camping in America. The basic mission of The Gunnery is to promote the four cornerstones on which character is built: scholarship, integrity, respect and responsibility.”
Torrington, CT—The family of a student who claims he was sexually abused at The Gunnery School in Washington, Connecticut filed a lawsuit on Monday, August 10, 2009. The lawsuit was filed in the Superior Court in New London, as reported by the Courant.
The alleged sexually assaulted victim, John Doe, claims he was assaulted on numerous occasions during his freshman year at The Gunnery School, from September 2007 to June 2008. Doe says he suffered from emotional distress and has a fear of attending school. The personal injury lawsuit names the former dean of students, Robert Reinhardt, 44; the head of school, Susan Graham; and a teacher, Dana Jackson. Reinhardt apparently was also the crew coach, a teacher, and a “dorm parent”, according to the lawsuit. The lawsuit further alleges Reinhardt had an on-campus apartment, where he frequently had minors over at his residence late at night, overnight, and early in the morning. In addition, the lawsuit says the boarding school was aware, or should have been aware of the inappropriate activities surrounding Reinhardt and the alleged victim. The school is also accused of neglecting to quickly respond to the sexual abuse allegations.
The Gunnery School released a statement saying, “We reported this information to the Connecticut state child welfare authorities immediately. The faculty member in question had left the school’s employment.” On August 5, 2009, Reinhardt surrendered to state police and was charged with second-degree sexual assault. He was also charged with two counts of risk of injury to a minor, and his bail was set at $750,000. Reinhardt’s next court date is scheduled for September 1st at the Superior Court in Litchfield.
According to Wikipedia http://www.wikipedia.org
“The Gunnery School is a coeducational boarding and day Prep school for 295 students in grades nine through twelve. The Gunnery was founded in 1850 by Frederick W. Gunn, a teacher, abolitionist, and father of recreational camping in America. The basic mission of The Gunnery is to promote the four cornerstones on which character is built: scholarship, integrity, respect and responsibility.”
James Kent Sentenced to 1-3 Years for Child Porn
A former professor at Marist College has been sentenced to 1-3 years in state prison for keeping child pornography on his computers at the school.
James Kent was convicted in April at a trial in Dutchess County.
The judge sentenced him on Friday.
Some of the photos found on the 62-year-old's computer depicted infants being sexually abused.
James Kent was convicted in April at a trial in Dutchess County.
The judge sentenced him on Friday.
Some of the photos found on the 62-year-old's computer depicted infants being sexually abused.
Former Teacher Richard Doucet Sentenced to 14 Years for Child Porn
A former Montreal elementary school teacher has been sentenced to 14 years in Virginia prison for child pornography. Richard Doucet, who taught at Selwyn House, pleaded guilty to 25 counts of possessing the illegal images.
This term is in addition to the 14-year sentence Doucet received earlier this month after pleading guilty to another series of charges, including two each of attempted indecent liberties and using a computer to solicit sex with a minor.
Virginia prosecutor LaBravia Jenkins said the two sentences must be served consecutively, for a total of 28 years and seven months.
This term is in addition to the 14-year sentence Doucet received earlier this month after pleading guilty to another series of charges, including two each of attempted indecent liberties and using a computer to solicit sex with a minor.
Virginia prosecutor LaBravia Jenkins said the two sentences must be served consecutively, for a total of 28 years and seven months.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Barry Morris Arrested for Sex Act with Minor
Greece Police have charged a Greece Central School District teacher for a criminal sex act and for endangering the welfare of a child.
Police arrested 63-year-old Barry Morris, a 4th grade teacher at West Ridge Road Elementary, on July 31 and he was send to the Monroe County Jail until he posted bail.
The alleged incident involves a 14 years of age and younger.
According to Greece School Superintendent Steve Achramovitch, Morris has been placed on paid administrative leave. Achramovitch also said the alleged incident did not occur on school property and it did not involve a student that Morris teaches.
Morris has been a teacher for 35 years with 19 years at West Ridge Elementary.
---------------------------------
http://rocnow.com/article/local-news/200990804015
Monday, August 3, 2009
Kyle Gregory Speed Charged with Possession of Child Porn
A substitute teacher from Colorado Springs has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Denver on charges of transportation and possession of child pornography Tuesday.
According to the indictment, on July 2, 2008, 52-year-old Kyle Gregory Speed of Colorado Springs, traded two video files depicting children engaging in sexual intercourse on his computer. In addition, the indictment alleges that between July 1995 through January 16, 2009, Speed possessed three different computers containing child pornography. Speed is also alleged to possess a 1 GB thumb drive containing child pornography.
Speed made his initial appearance in U.S. District Court in Denver Tuesday afternoon, where he was advised of the charges pending against him. He is scheduled to appear next in Court on Friday, July 31, 2009, for arraignment and a detention hearing. He faces seven counts in the indictment. Counts 1 and 2 alleged that he transported child pornography across state lines. If convicted, he faces not less than 5 years, and up to 20 years in federal prison, as well as a fine of $250,000 per count. Counts 3 through 6 alleged that Speed possessed child pornography. If convicted on those counts, he faces not more than 10 years imprisonment, and up to a $250,000 fine per count. In addition, Count 7 is the asset forfeiture count.
"The U.S. Attorney's Office will continue to prosecute child predators, especially those who prey on their victims from a position of trust," said Acting U.S. Attorney David Gaouette.
"All children have an absolute right to grow up free from the fear of being sexually exploited," said Jeffrey Copp, Special Agent in Charge of the ICE Office of Investigations in Denver. "And children should never have to fear those who are supposed to protect them. ICE will relentlessly pursue anyone who sexually exploits our most vulnerable asset, our children," Copp said.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Teacher Robert Barth Arrested for Child Porn
An Orange County man was an Army veteran, foster parent, second grade teacher and accused child porn junkie. Robert Barth was quietly arrested on Monday, but the allegations against him came to light Thursday in a federal hearing where his lawyer was trying to get him out of jail.
Barth posted bond around 2:00pm Thursday. Neighbors and parents are stunned by his arrest and subsequent release.
Barth, 57, has taught fourth and second graders at Cheney Elementary School since 2004. The community around that school is in shock and frustrated; they had no idea why he suddenly left the school.
Federal investigators arrested Barth early this week on child pornography charges. Court documents reveal the 27-year Army vet started downloading child porn in 2005.
No one answered at his home Thursday and, later, a car pulled in and the garage closed.
Eyewitness News found a handprint of a small child outside the home and the Department of Children and Families says Barth and his wife have had 19 foster children since 2002, but DCF has had no allegations of abuse.
The school district pulled Barth out of the classroom and put him on paid leave in December when it learned he was under investigation by the FBI.
"It's kind of scary," parent Angel Gonzalez told Eyewitness News.
Gonzalez has two children and lives across the street in from Barth in his east Orange County neighborhood. He describes Barth as quiet, but friendly.
News of his arrest has people in the area wondering how a family man and teacher could get involved in such a disturbing crime involving children.
"I don't like it, kind of dangerous, especially working at school," Gonzalez said.
Barth is out on bond and will be on home confinement. Court documents show he has surrendered his passport.
The school district is working with law enforcement to determine if he'll be fired
Barth posted bond around 2:00pm Thursday. Neighbors and parents are stunned by his arrest and subsequent release.
Barth, 57, has taught fourth and second graders at Cheney Elementary School since 2004. The community around that school is in shock and frustrated; they had no idea why he suddenly left the school.
Federal investigators arrested Barth early this week on child pornography charges. Court documents reveal the 27-year Army vet started downloading child porn in 2005.
No one answered at his home Thursday and, later, a car pulled in and the garage closed.
Eyewitness News found a handprint of a small child outside the home and the Department of Children and Families says Barth and his wife have had 19 foster children since 2002, but DCF has had no allegations of abuse.
The school district pulled Barth out of the classroom and put him on paid leave in December when it learned he was under investigation by the FBI.
"It's kind of scary," parent Angel Gonzalez told Eyewitness News.
Gonzalez has two children and lives across the street in from Barth in his east Orange County neighborhood. He describes Barth as quiet, but friendly.
News of his arrest has people in the area wondering how a family man and teacher could get involved in such a disturbing crime involving children.
"I don't like it, kind of dangerous, especially working at school," Gonzalez said.
Barth is out on bond and will be on home confinement. Court documents show he has surrendered his passport.
The school district is working with law enforcement to determine if he'll be fired
Teacher Danial Rothbard Arrested for Sexual Assault on 15-year-old
An elementary school math teacher and longtime camp counselor was arrested on July 21 and charged with sexually assaulting a 15-year-old girl, police said.
Daniel Rothbard, 28, of Merrick, was found in a car with the girl in the parking lot of Westbrook Elementary School in West Islip at 8:25 p.m. last Tuesday, and was arrested. Aside from being a camp counselor in East Rockaway, Rothbard teaches at Willow Road School in Franklin Square.
Detective Lt. Matt Sullivan of Suffolk County’s 3rd Precinct said Rothbard was “in a partial state of undress” at the time of the arrest. Sullivan did not say whether the girl was unclothed as well, but he did say the two were not having sex when they were discovered by a patrol officer.
Investigators learned that Rothbard, who graduated from Lawrence High School in 1999, met the girl through MySpace, and that in online conversations in which he used the name “DJ” or “D to the J,” he told her he was 17. Sullivan said that investigators are trying to determine whether he used the Internet to meet other underage girls.
Rothbard was charged with two felonies, third-degree rape and third-degree criminal sexual act; and two misdemeanors, third-degree sexual abuse and endangering the welfare of a child. He pleaded not guilty at an arraignment in First District Court in Central Islip on July 22, according to his attorney, Todd Greenberg, and was released after $5,000 bail was posted in cash later that day.
Rothbard, who is married, has been a teacher in Valley Stream District 13 for the past four years. He has worked as a math specialist at the James A. Dever School in Valley Stream and, most recently, at Willow Road School in Franklin Square. He earned tenure in the district in 2008.
In a written statement, District 13 Superintendent Elizabeth Lison said, “The district is currently consulting with its legal counsel regarding this teacher’s employment status.” Lison also noted that Rothbard had undergone a background check before he was hired, and had no criminal record. She described the arrest as “an incident unrelated to his employment with the district.”
Rothbard was also employed for 16 years at Rolling River Day Camp in East Rockaway as a counselor, and then as an assistant supervisor. In a letter to parents, camp directors Rhonda and Mark Goodman wrote that his “employment has been terminated,” adding, “We have no reason to believe he engaged in similar behavior with anyone at camp.” But the letter urged parents to ask children about any inappropriate activity they may have experienced.
Mark Goodman said that Rothbard’s younger brother, Eric, works at Rolling River, as he has for “a lot of years.” Goodman could not confirm whether Rothbard’s wife, who is also a camp employee, would be returning to Rolling River, but said, “She’s taking a few days.”
“We know him as a very decent young man,” Greenberg said, “and we look forward to resolving this case.”
If convicted, Rothbard faces 16 months to four years in prison and the loss of his teaching license. Section 10.55 of New York State Education Law empowers the commissioner of education to revoke the certificate of a teacher convicted of a sex crime.
Rothbard is due back in court on Sept. 22.
Daniel Rothbard, 28, of Merrick, was found in a car with the girl in the parking lot of Westbrook Elementary School in West Islip at 8:25 p.m. last Tuesday, and was arrested. Aside from being a camp counselor in East Rockaway, Rothbard teaches at Willow Road School in Franklin Square.
Detective Lt. Matt Sullivan of Suffolk County’s 3rd Precinct said Rothbard was “in a partial state of undress” at the time of the arrest. Sullivan did not say whether the girl was unclothed as well, but he did say the two were not having sex when they were discovered by a patrol officer.
Investigators learned that Rothbard, who graduated from Lawrence High School in 1999, met the girl through MySpace, and that in online conversations in which he used the name “DJ” or “D to the J,” he told her he was 17. Sullivan said that investigators are trying to determine whether he used the Internet to meet other underage girls.
Rothbard was charged with two felonies, third-degree rape and third-degree criminal sexual act; and two misdemeanors, third-degree sexual abuse and endangering the welfare of a child. He pleaded not guilty at an arraignment in First District Court in Central Islip on July 22, according to his attorney, Todd Greenberg, and was released after $5,000 bail was posted in cash later that day.
Rothbard, who is married, has been a teacher in Valley Stream District 13 for the past four years. He has worked as a math specialist at the James A. Dever School in Valley Stream and, most recently, at Willow Road School in Franklin Square. He earned tenure in the district in 2008.
In a written statement, District 13 Superintendent Elizabeth Lison said, “The district is currently consulting with its legal counsel regarding this teacher’s employment status.” Lison also noted that Rothbard had undergone a background check before he was hired, and had no criminal record. She described the arrest as “an incident unrelated to his employment with the district.”
Rothbard was also employed for 16 years at Rolling River Day Camp in East Rockaway as a counselor, and then as an assistant supervisor. In a letter to parents, camp directors Rhonda and Mark Goodman wrote that his “employment has been terminated,” adding, “We have no reason to believe he engaged in similar behavior with anyone at camp.” But the letter urged parents to ask children about any inappropriate activity they may have experienced.
Mark Goodman said that Rothbard’s younger brother, Eric, works at Rolling River, as he has for “a lot of years.” Goodman could not confirm whether Rothbard’s wife, who is also a camp employee, would be returning to Rolling River, but said, “She’s taking a few days.”
“We know him as a very decent young man,” Greenberg said, “and we look forward to resolving this case.”
If convicted, Rothbard faces 16 months to four years in prison and the loss of his teaching license. Section 10.55 of New York State Education Law empowers the commissioner of education to revoke the certificate of a teacher convicted of a sex crime.
Rothbard is due back in court on Sept. 22.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Teacher James Victor Healy Hangs Himself After Arrested for Child Porn
A longtime Fresno Unified School District teacher hanged himself Tuesday in the Fresno County Jail, not long after he was arrested at school on suspicion of child pornography, officials said.
James Victor Healy, 65, of Fresno was arrested at J.E. Young High School, a year-round independent-study campus, about 11 a.m. Tuesday and arrived at the Fresno County Jail about 11:17 a.m., according to a jail document.
Fresno County Sheriff's Office spokesman Chris Curtice would only say that Healy was being held on suspicion of child pornography. A federal spokeswoman wouldn't elaborate on why agents arrested Healy.
Curtice said Healy was placed in a booking cell, but because he had not yet been booked, he still had on his belt and shoes.
Healy was found hanging from his belt "a short time later," Curtice said, and was taken to Community Regional Medical Center. Healy was pronounced dead at 2:15 a.m. Wednesday, the Fresno County Coroner's office said.
Healy had been a Fresno Unified teacher for 35 years, district spokeswoman Susan Bedi said. He was a technology teacher and had taught at Duncan Polytechnical High School and worked for the district's technology services department, Bedi said.
"On behalf of Fresno Unified, we would like to extend our condolences to the family during this difficult time," Bedi said in a statement issued Wednesday.
A woman who answered the telephone at Healy's residence declined to comment.
Virginia Kice, spokeswoman for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, confirmed that agents took Healy into custody Tuesday but declined to give details about what led to his arrest. "There is no criminal complaint at this point," she said.
James Victor Healy, 65, of Fresno was arrested at J.E. Young High School, a year-round independent-study campus, about 11 a.m. Tuesday and arrived at the Fresno County Jail about 11:17 a.m., according to a jail document.
Fresno County Sheriff's Office spokesman Chris Curtice would only say that Healy was being held on suspicion of child pornography. A federal spokeswoman wouldn't elaborate on why agents arrested Healy.
Curtice said Healy was placed in a booking cell, but because he had not yet been booked, he still had on his belt and shoes.
Healy was found hanging from his belt "a short time later," Curtice said, and was taken to Community Regional Medical Center. Healy was pronounced dead at 2:15 a.m. Wednesday, the Fresno County Coroner's office said.
Healy had been a Fresno Unified teacher for 35 years, district spokeswoman Susan Bedi said. He was a technology teacher and had taught at Duncan Polytechnical High School and worked for the district's technology services department, Bedi said.
"On behalf of Fresno Unified, we would like to extend our condolences to the family during this difficult time," Bedi said in a statement issued Wednesday.
A woman who answered the telephone at Healy's residence declined to comment.
Virginia Kice, spokeswoman for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, confirmed that agents took Healy into custody Tuesday but declined to give details about what led to his arrest. "There is no criminal complaint at this point," she said.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Teacher Anthony Ruiz Arrested for Getting 16-year-old Pregnant
A teacher is accused of sexual assault after investigators say he got a 16-year-old student pregnant.
The Larimer County Sheriff's Office has arrested 34-year-old Anthony Ruiz, a former social studies teacher at Eagle Rock School.
Administrators at the school told the sheriff's office a former student told them she had been sexually assaulted by Ruiz in May 2009.
Robert Burkhardt, head of Eagle Rock School, said the former student called a member of the staff on Wednesday, July 22 and told that member about the incident.
Burkhardt says the school immediately contacted Child Protective Services and the Larimer County Sheriff's Department.
The teen, who is currently with her family in California, told investigators the assault happened one time and she became pregnant.
Investigators say the alleged assault happened at Ruiz's home, which is on the school campus.
No other assaults have been reported by this student or any other students at the school, but deputies are talking with other students to get more information.
Last Friday, investigators contacted Ruiz and arrested him on one count of sexual assault on a child by a person in a position of trust.
"There is an ethical, moral as well as a legal issue as to a person in a position of trust, [such as] a teacher having sex with a student, regardless of their age, but particularly a juvenile student," Larimer County Sheriff James Alderden said.
Burkhardt tells 9NEWS he put Ruiz on administrative leave Friday and fired him Saturday.
"This place operates in the world of trust," Burkhardt said. "This trust was violated."
Burkhardt says the 16-year-old was first enrolled at the school in January 2008. She left in early to mid July.
Ruiz posted a $5,000 bond at the Larimer County Detention Center on Monday night. The sheriff's department says if Ruiz is convicted, he could get up to 12 years in prison and a $500,000 fine.
He was hired by Eagle Rock School in July 2008. Investigators say Ruiz also taught in South Korea and Japan. They say his wife was out of town at the time of the alleged incident.
Eagle Rock School is a private, year-round alternative high school. Students from around the U.S., ages 15 through 19, are enrolled there.
Burkhardt released a full statement on Monday afternoon:
"The faculty and staff of Eagle Rock School are both shocked and saddened at reports of inappropriate and inexcusable conduct between a member of the faculty, and a student. Eagle Rock School is founded on trust, and this reported incident clearly violates that trust.
This is a matter of utmost seriousness. As soon as these allegations were reported, school officials contacted local law enforcement and social services. The school has been fully cooperating with these agencies to investigate this matter. School officials have also reached out to the former student, who is no longer on campus, and to her mother, to offer assistance.
In addition, parents and sponsors of students have been informed of these circumstances and assured that the safety of Eagle Rock students is our primary concern. Special counseling for all students, male and female, is underway.
Eagle Rock School maintains a strict Standard of Conduct for students, faculty and staff. In light of this matter, these Standards have again been communicated and reinforced to the entire Eagle Rock community. In addition, the school is conducting an immediate and intensive internal review of these policies to strengthen and enhance them.
The Instructional Specialist in question, Mr. Anthony Ruiz, was an employee of Eagle Rock School from July 7, 2008, until July 25, 2009, when he was immediately terminated for conduct in direct violation of the Standards of Conduct at Eagle Rock School.
Eagle Rock School, in Estes Park, Colorado, is a year-round private residential high school for students 15-19 who have not experienced success in traditional academic programs, who did not expect to graduate from high school, and who are committed to changing their lives for the better. The school, which has a capacity of 96 students, was established in 1993.
Out of respect for the privacy of our students, and due to the fact that this is an ongoing legal matter, Eagle Rock School will be unable to say anything further at this time."
The Larimer County Sheriff's Office has arrested 34-year-old Anthony Ruiz, a former social studies teacher at Eagle Rock School.
Administrators at the school told the sheriff's office a former student told them she had been sexually assaulted by Ruiz in May 2009.
Robert Burkhardt, head of Eagle Rock School, said the former student called a member of the staff on Wednesday, July 22 and told that member about the incident.
Burkhardt says the school immediately contacted Child Protective Services and the Larimer County Sheriff's Department.
The teen, who is currently with her family in California, told investigators the assault happened one time and she became pregnant.
Investigators say the alleged assault happened at Ruiz's home, which is on the school campus.
No other assaults have been reported by this student or any other students at the school, but deputies are talking with other students to get more information.
Last Friday, investigators contacted Ruiz and arrested him on one count of sexual assault on a child by a person in a position of trust.
"There is an ethical, moral as well as a legal issue as to a person in a position of trust, [such as] a teacher having sex with a student, regardless of their age, but particularly a juvenile student," Larimer County Sheriff James Alderden said.
Burkhardt tells 9NEWS he put Ruiz on administrative leave Friday and fired him Saturday.
"This place operates in the world of trust," Burkhardt said. "This trust was violated."
Burkhardt says the 16-year-old was first enrolled at the school in January 2008. She left in early to mid July.
Ruiz posted a $5,000 bond at the Larimer County Detention Center on Monday night. The sheriff's department says if Ruiz is convicted, he could get up to 12 years in prison and a $500,000 fine.
He was hired by Eagle Rock School in July 2008. Investigators say Ruiz also taught in South Korea and Japan. They say his wife was out of town at the time of the alleged incident.
Eagle Rock School is a private, year-round alternative high school. Students from around the U.S., ages 15 through 19, are enrolled there.
Burkhardt released a full statement on Monday afternoon:
"The faculty and staff of Eagle Rock School are both shocked and saddened at reports of inappropriate and inexcusable conduct between a member of the faculty, and a student. Eagle Rock School is founded on trust, and this reported incident clearly violates that trust.
This is a matter of utmost seriousness. As soon as these allegations were reported, school officials contacted local law enforcement and social services. The school has been fully cooperating with these agencies to investigate this matter. School officials have also reached out to the former student, who is no longer on campus, and to her mother, to offer assistance.
In addition, parents and sponsors of students have been informed of these circumstances and assured that the safety of Eagle Rock students is our primary concern. Special counseling for all students, male and female, is underway.
Eagle Rock School maintains a strict Standard of Conduct for students, faculty and staff. In light of this matter, these Standards have again been communicated and reinforced to the entire Eagle Rock community. In addition, the school is conducting an immediate and intensive internal review of these policies to strengthen and enhance them.
The Instructional Specialist in question, Mr. Anthony Ruiz, was an employee of Eagle Rock School from July 7, 2008, until July 25, 2009, when he was immediately terminated for conduct in direct violation of the Standards of Conduct at Eagle Rock School.
Eagle Rock School, in Estes Park, Colorado, is a year-round private residential high school for students 15-19 who have not experienced success in traditional academic programs, who did not expect to graduate from high school, and who are committed to changing their lives for the better. The school, which has a capacity of 96 students, was established in 1993.
Out of respect for the privacy of our students, and due to the fact that this is an ongoing legal matter, Eagle Rock School will be unable to say anything further at this time."
____________________
Other Information: http://www.kdvr.com/news/kdvr-teachersex-072709,0,5476038.story
Tara Hodges Sentenced to 10 years for Having Sex with Minor
A former Central Texas middle school teacher who claimed she was raped by a 14-year-old student was sentenced to 10 years in prison after a plea deal Monday.
Investigators learned that Tara Hodges actually had a two month long sexual relationship with that student during Spring of 2008.
She pleaded guilty to 10 counts of sexually assaulting a student.
According to the arrest affidavit, Hodges, a former teacher at Brazos Middle School in Waco, drove the 14-year-old boy to her apartment on Lake Shore Drive, smoked marijuana and had sex with the minor on at least 10 different occasions.
__________________
Investigators learned that Tara Hodges actually had a two month long sexual relationship with that student during Spring of 2008.
She pleaded guilty to 10 counts of sexually assaulting a student.
According to the arrest affidavit, Hodges, a former teacher at Brazos Middle School in Waco, drove the 14-year-old boy to her apartment on Lake Shore Drive, smoked marijuana and had sex with the minor on at least 10 different occasions.
__________________
Sunday, July 26, 2009
John Kovach Arrested for Child Porn
A teacher and field hockey coach is now facing a federal indictment on child pornography charges.
Fifty-two-year-old John Kovach was arrested on March 11 by Baltimore County police. He was a teacher at a Montessori school in Montgomery County and an assistant field hockey coach at Towson University.
Authorities say the investigation began after a sexually explicit online conversation between Kovach and a retired Los Angeles police detective who was posing as a 13-year-old girl.
Police searched Kovach's Reisterstown home and seized computers. According to the indictment, authorities found sexually explicit images of young girls.
Kovach has been charged with receipt and possession of child pornography. If convicted, he faces a minimum sentence of five years in prison and a maximum of 20 years.
_________________________
http://media-newswire.com/release_1095264.html
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Former Teacher John Puglisi Convicted of Child Porn
BINGHAMTON
A former Newark Valley High School teacher was convicted Friday of federal child pornography charges.
A jury found 30-year-old John Puglisi guilty of producing child pornography, possessing child pornography and persuading, inducing and enticing a minor to engage in sexual conduct.
He faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison and up to 30 years, said Assistant U.S. Attorney Miroslav Lovric. Senior U.S. District Court Judge Thomas J. McAvoy is scheduled to sentence Puglisi at 9:30 a.m. Nov. 23.
Puglisi, a former social studies teacher and the father of two children, was accused of sending sexually explicit text messages to a 16-year-old girl with whom he had a sexual relationship. In the messages, he asked the victim to send "more naked pictures" and take pictures of herself in sexual contexts.
The mostly male jury began deliberations around 2 p.m. Thursday, wrapping up later that afternoon. It returned to court at 9:30 a.m. Friday morning and gave their verdict about an hour later, Lovric said.
"They had a lot of evidence to sift through," he said.
Puglisi also faces state counts of felony third-degree rape and misdemeanor endangering the welfare of a child.
During closing arguments, defense attorney Vincent Accardi told the jury that Puglisi is guilty of a state felony, but didn't commit the federal offenses. Their cell phone communication was only a substitute for their previous sexual relationship, he said.
In testimony, the girl said she didn't consider herself a victim and viewed the relationship as consensual. State law considers
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Linda Nef Sentenced to 3 Years to Life for Having Sex with Student
Despite requests from Linda Nef's 13-year-old victim and his family, Judge Rodney Page said Tuesday that he had no other choice but to send a former Bountiful Junior High teacher to prison.
The 2nd District judge sentenced Nef to three years to life in prison for having sex with one of her former students, and a flushed and sobbing Nef was immediately handcuffed and led from the courtroom.
In lengthy remarks before he imposed the sentence, Page said he wished the responsibility to sentence her rested with someone else.
"I haven't slept well in thinking about this case and knowing that from the date the defendant entered her plea, it would be my responsibility to impose sentence," Page said.
While he said it was commendable that Nef had come forward and confessed her wrongdoing with the boy, he said there were hundreds if not thousands of victims besides this particular boy who had been hurt by her actions.
"The greater victim in this might be our society as a whole," Page said. "This undermines our faith, beliefs and confidence in institutions that create the foundation of freedoms by which we live — and that is our schools.
"In our society, we esteem our teachers to be among the most honorable people, although sometimes we wouldn't think that by the way we try to pay them and other things. We entrust them with the most important commodity we have in our society, and that is our children," Page said.
Page said he had no doubt Nef was a good teacher and was genuinely repentant for what she has done, but the judge sensed Nef also was motivated by the "a concern this was going to come out anyway" once Nef got word about an alleged sexual relationship between another teacher and the same boy.
A tearful Nef, 46, apologized to her victim, his family and "educators everywhere who have been damaged by my actions," but especially the faculty at Bountiful Junior High, whom she characterized as honorable and hard-working people.
"I loved teaching with all my heart — and yet I committed a crime," she said.
Nef, who is married and the mother of three, began to choke up as she described how sorry she was for any harm she had done to the boy and said she wanted to offer her apologies publicly for "my completely selfish actions."
"I was an adult, I was responsible, and I knew better," she said.
Nef pleaded guilty in June to a reduced charge of attempted aggravated sexual abuse of a child, a first-degree felony, as part of a plea bargain.
She originally faced charges of rape of a child and sodomy on a child, both first-degree felonies that generally carry tough penalties.
_______________________
The 2nd District judge sentenced Nef to three years to life in prison for having sex with one of her former students, and a flushed and sobbing Nef was immediately handcuffed and led from the courtroom.
In lengthy remarks before he imposed the sentence, Page said he wished the responsibility to sentence her rested with someone else.
"I haven't slept well in thinking about this case and knowing that from the date the defendant entered her plea, it would be my responsibility to impose sentence," Page said.
While he said it was commendable that Nef had come forward and confessed her wrongdoing with the boy, he said there were hundreds if not thousands of victims besides this particular boy who had been hurt by her actions.
"The greater victim in this might be our society as a whole," Page said. "This undermines our faith, beliefs and confidence in institutions that create the foundation of freedoms by which we live — and that is our schools.
"In our society, we esteem our teachers to be among the most honorable people, although sometimes we wouldn't think that by the way we try to pay them and other things. We entrust them with the most important commodity we have in our society, and that is our children," Page said.
Page said he had no doubt Nef was a good teacher and was genuinely repentant for what she has done, but the judge sensed Nef also was motivated by the "a concern this was going to come out anyway" once Nef got word about an alleged sexual relationship between another teacher and the same boy.
A tearful Nef, 46, apologized to her victim, his family and "educators everywhere who have been damaged by my actions," but especially the faculty at Bountiful Junior High, whom she characterized as honorable and hard-working people.
"I loved teaching with all my heart — and yet I committed a crime," she said.
Nef, who is married and the mother of three, began to choke up as she described how sorry she was for any harm she had done to the boy and said she wanted to offer her apologies publicly for "my completely selfish actions."
"I was an adult, I was responsible, and I knew better," she said.
Nef pleaded guilty in June to a reduced charge of attempted aggravated sexual abuse of a child, a first-degree felony, as part of a plea bargain.
She originally faced charges of rape of a child and sodomy on a child, both first-degree felonies that generally carry tough penalties.
_______________________
More of the story: http://www.deseretnews.com/article/705318304/Former-teacher-sent-to-prison.html?pg=2
Other Informatuon:
http://www.ksl.com/index.php?nid=148&sid=7245167
Other Informatuon:
http://www.ksl.com/index.php?nid=148&sid=7245167
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