(DailyAnswer.org) – A shocking incident unfolded at Lenox Elementary School in New Jersey, where a teacher is accused of taping a nine-year-old boy to his desk for nearly an hour. Adding to the controversy, a teacher’s aide allegedly stood by and did nothing to stop it.
Todd Lewis, a 57-year-old teacher, reportedly used masking tape to secure the boy to his desk by wrapping it around the back of the child’s neck and attaching it to the desk. This reportedly lasted for 40 to 50 minutes during a school day in October. Sallyann Scala, a 67-year-old aide who was present during the incident, is accused of failing to step in, according to police reports from the Pompton Lakes Police Department.
The charges are serious. Lewis faces one count of second-degree endangering the welfare of a child, which could land him in prison for five to ten years if convicted. Scala, charged with fourth-degree abuse and neglect, could face up to 18 months behind bars, as detailed in a local prosecutor’s statement.
Authorities acted quickly after learning of the allegations. Lewis was arrested on Wednesday and appeared in court the following day. He has since been released under strict conditions, including electronic monitoring and a ban on contact with children. Scala was served a summons the same day.
The school district has responded by placing both staff members on leave. Superintendent Paul Amoroso assured the public in a statement: “We want to guarantee the safety and security of our students and are working closely with law enforcement to address this matter.”
Parents and community members have expressed outrage over the situation, with many questioning how such an incident could occur in a school setting. The case has also reignited discussions about school safety and the responsibility of educators to protect students.
As the investigation continues, both the teacher and aide are awaiting their day in court. Meanwhile, the district is working to reassure families that the safety of students remains their top priority. The shocking details of the incident serve as a reminder of the need for vigilance and accountability in educational environments, as highlighted in a police account of the incident.
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