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Fox 43 reported that a former teacher at Middletown Area High School, located at 1155 N Union St, Middletown, PA 17057, has been arrested and charged with multiple offenses related to alleged inappropriate conduct with students. Zachary Agustin Cerrone, 33, of Wellsboro, was apprehended by Lower Swatara Township Police on Thursday, February 8, 2024, following an investigation into the incidents that occurred between September and November 2023.
Cerrone is facing a series of serious charges, including a felony count of institutional sexual assault, two felony counts of unlawful contact with a minor (sexual offenses), two misdemeanor counts of corruption of minors, and three misdemeanor counts of indecent assault. The charges stem from allegations made by students and staff members at Middletown High School.
According to a criminal complaint affidavit filed by investigators, one student reported that Cerrone had touched her buttocks, shoulders, and elbows on multiple occasions while in the classroom. The student also stated that Cerrone would stare at her legs when she wore leggings, causing her to feel uncomfortable. Another student corroborated some of the first student's claims, confirming that she had witnessed some of Cerrone's alleged inappropriate behavior. The second student further accused Cerrone of touching her hips and buttocks.
Disturbingly, a staff member at Middletown High School also came forward, accusing Cerrone of inappropriate touching. The staff member alleged that Cerrone would rub the genital area of his pants against her when he walked behind her in the classroom. Despite confronting Cerrone about his behavior, the staff member claimed that he did not cease his actions.
Multiple other staff members at Middletown High School expressed concerns to investigators about Cerrone's conduct towards female students. These reports raised additional alarm and prompted a thorough investigation into the matter.
Cerrone, who was listed as a special education teacher on the Middletown School District website, tendered his resignation in January, according to school board minutes. He had been employed by the district since 2021.
Dr. Chelton Hunter, Superintendent of Schools, released a letter addressing the allegations against Cerrone. In the letter, Dr. Hunter expressed deep concern and acknowledged the erosion of trust that such incidents can cause within the school community. The school administration took swift action upon learning of the accusations, initiating an internal investigation and cooperating fully with law enforcement authorities.
Cerrone's involvement in the wrestling community has also come to light. He was the former head wrestling coach at Hershey High School, located at 550 Homestead Rd, Hershey, PA 17033. He served as the junior high coach of the Elizabethtown High School girls' wrestling team, located at 600 E High St, Elizabethtown, PA 17022, according to information from PAWrestling.com.
The investigation into Cerrone's alleged misconduct is ongoing, with authorities urging anyone with additional information to come forward. Det. Robert Appleby of the Lower Swatara Township Police Dept. can be reached at 717-648-8665 or 717-558-6900.
The Middletown School District has reassured the community that it will take all necessary measures to protect students and ensure their safety. The district emphasized its zero-tolerance policy towards inappropriate conduct and encouraged anyone with relevant information to contact the school district or the Lower Swatara Police Department.
In the wake of alarming cases of alleged inappropriate conduct by teachers and coaches at high schools, it is crucial to discuss the legal options available to the victims and their families. In this exclusive interview, we sat down with Brian Kent, Esq., an experienced sexual abuse attorney with offices in Pennsylvania. Together, we explore the steps victims can take when pursuing civil cases against liable parties while providing valuable insights into the legal landscape and ways to seek justice for survivors. Join us as we delve into this important conversation on addressing sexual abuse in educational institutions.
Darla Medina (DM): Welcome, Brian.
Brian Kent (BK): Thank you, Darla. I appreciate the opportunity to discuss this critical topic.
DM: Brian, when a student or their family discovers that they have been sexually abused by a teacher or coach at a high school, what actions should they consider taking?
BK: When faced with such distressing circumstances, the immediate priority is the safety and well-being of the victim. It is crucial to contact local law enforcement to report the abuse. Concurrently, seeking the guidance of an experienced sexual abuse attorney who specializes in these cases is essential. They can help navigate the legal process, protect the victim's rights, and provide support throughout the entire journey.
DM: What are some liable parties that might be involved in a civil case related to sexual abuse by a teacher or coach?
BK: In cases like these, multiple parties can bear liability. The school district, administrators, individual faculty members, and even the school itself may be held accountable. It is crucial to conduct a thorough investigation to identify all potentially liable parties and build a comprehensive case based on the evidence.
DM: Could you briefly explain the role of a sexual abuse attorney in these cases?
BK: Certainly, Darla. A sexual abuse attorney plays a crucial role in supporting and advocating for the victim and their family. They conduct a meticulous investigation, ensuring all evidence is collected, witnesses are interviewed, and relevant facts are established. The attorney handles all legal aspects, including filing necessary paperwork, negotiating with insurance companies, and representing their clients in court. Their primary objective is to seek justice for the victim and hold responsible parties accountable.
DM: Thank you, Brian, for explaining this important matter. Is there any additional advice or information you would like to share with victims and their families?
BK: It's essential for sex abuse victims and their families to know they are not alone. Support is available, both legally and emotionally. It's crucial to reach out to professionals who specialize in these cases and can provide guidance and assistance. By speaking out, victims not only seek justice for themselves, but they also contribute to preventing future incidents of abuse.
DM: Thank you, Brian, for sharing your expertise and insights on this critical topic. We hope this interview provides guidance and support to those affected by such tragic situations.
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