A music and theater educator from a high school in northern New Jersey is facing serious allegations of sexually assaulting a teenage girl over an extended period.
William Arnold, 53, who teaches at Pequannock High School, has been charged with first-degree aggravated sexual assault. The investigation commenced last month following a report from a colleague regarding his “inappropriate behavior,” according to the Pequannock Police Department and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office.
According to the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, Arnold, who is a father of three and married, is accused of sexually assaulting the female student on “multiple occasions” throughout the past year.
The alleged misconduct reportedly began when the girl was just 15 years old and persisted after she turned 16.
Before his arrest on September 29, Arnold recently co-directed a performance of “The Wedding Singer.” Following his detention, he was placed on “administrative leave” by the school administration.
In a letter to the community, Pequannock Schools Superintendent Michael Portas reassured parents and guardians: “We are taking every possible measure to ensure the safety of your children, our staff, and the entire school community. Guidance counselors are available to assist all students and families as necessary.”
The charges against Arnold encompass first-degree aggravated sexual assault, fourth-degree criminal sexual contact, and second-degree offenses including sexual assault, endangering the welfare of a child, and official misconduct.
Currently, he remains in custody at the Morris County Correctional Facility.
Pequannock is an affluent suburb, situated about 25 miles northwest of New York City, with a population of approximately 15,000 residents.
