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According to NorthCentralPa.com, a teacher is being investigated for inappropriate sexual contact with a student at Williamsport Area High School located at 2800 W 4th St, Williamsport, PA 17701.
A student has alleged that Michelle Pulizzi, an English teacher at the high school, “made out” with him on the school campus. The incident occurred during lunch back in 2018 in a room other than her classroom. The teacher allegedly touched the student's penis before they were interrupted. The two exchanged nude photographs and videos, including one where Pulizzi could be seen masturbating, through Snapchat. Pulizzi also made plans to meet up at her home to engage in sexual intercourse, but the student could not make it due to a school event.
Investigators were able to access her phone after getting a search warrant. During an interview in July, Pulizzi allegedly admitted to sending nude pictures to the teen. The teacher has not been charged at this time but officials say the investigation is ongoing. Additionally, the superintendent would not comment on rumors that she was placed on administrative leave.
This is not the first time a Williamsport High School employee has been investigated over inappropriate contact with a student. Their former principal Roger Freed was charged back in June for having a sexual relationship with a student. Read more about it here:
Attorney contributor Guy D'Andrea fights for the justice of sexual assault victims across the state of Pennsylvania. Brian has years of experience as a school sex assault attorney and recently discussed when a victim can sue if sexually abused by a high school teacher.
"It is the legal duty of high school officials to provide basic safety on their campuses. They are also tasked with being aware of signs of abuse within their faculty. Aside from conducting background checks on all school staff and teachers, the school can have security cameras on the campus and conduct security sweeps to reduce the risk of preventable dangers. Law enforcement should be informed of any incidents that may involve misconduct. Otherwise, high schools can be held liable for neglecting their student's safety. "
"If a student has been sexually abused by a high school teacher, they should speak with an experienced school sex abuse lawyer. Statutes of limitations may affect a victim's rights to file a case against a negligent third party, such as the school or school district. Depending on the case, victims may be able to file a civil lawsuit for compensation."
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