A shocking scandal has rocked a Queens high school, as the founding principal of Academy of American Studies, William Bassell, has been accused of multiple incidents of sexual misconduct towards a female staffer on campus. The 66-year-old educator was arrested on May 27 on charges of forcible touching and five counts of sexual abuse in the third degree, according to a criminal complaint obtained by The Post.
The complaint details how Bassell allegedly touched the inner thigh of the woman without her consent in four separate incidents that occurred in 2023 and 2024. Additionally, in a fifth incident on June 6 of the previous year, Bassell reportedly prevented the woman from leaving by standing in front of her car, then proceeded to touch her neck and breast over her clothes without her consent.
Following his arrest, Bassell was promptly replaced as principal, and the city Department of Education announced an emergency meeting to address the situation. A DOE spokesperson stated, “We do not tolerate inappropriate behavior of any kind and we take these allegations very seriously. While we cannot comment on the specifics of this situation, we are addressing the matter urgently.”
Bassell, who had previously served as principal of Long Island City High School, turned himself in at the 112th Precinct special victims unit after the allegations came to light. The accusations have shocked many in the education community, as Bassell was known as a well-regarded educator with a history of community involvement.
In addition to his role in education, Bassell has also been involved in local politics, having previously run for a position on the Pelham Manor village board of trustees in Westchester County. The scandal has left many questioning the integrity of the school system and the individuals entrusted with the care and education of students.
