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A middle school teacher in New Jersey was arrested after he allegedly engaged in sexual contact with a student.
The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office announced in a press release on Monday, June 15, that Daniel Burbank was charged with multiple crimes in connection with the sexual assault.
Burbank, 37, was employed as a teacher and band director by Bloomfield Middle School at the time the alleged incident took place. Additionally, he worked as an assistant band director at Bloomfield High School.
He was arrested on Friday, June 12, and was charged with attempted aggravated sexual assault, sexual assault, sexual contact, criminal restraint, endangering the welfare of a child and luring.
The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office said that Burbank began engaging in inappropriate sexual conduct with the victim when they were just 13 years old. The alleged conduct continued after the victim graduated from Bloomfield Middle School and went on to attend Bloomfield High School.
It is not currently clear how long the alleged sexual relationship lasted, how old the victim is today or when the allegations were first reported.
In addition to sharing news of his arrest, the prosecutor’s office said that “all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until they enter a guilty plea or are found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.”
After Burbank was arrested, Bloomfield School Superintendent Salvatore Goncalves issued a statement about the situation on June 15.
“The Bloomfield School District is aware of an incident involving an employee that has resulted in law enforcement action. This employee has been placed on leave. The safety and well-being of our students remain our absolute highest priority. Counseling staff will be available to support any students or staff in need,” Goncalves said in the statement, according to Patch.
Goncalves added that “the district can make no further comment at this time” due to the ongoing investigation into the allegations. “We appreciate your understanding,” he concluded.
The prosecutor’s office asked that anyone with information regarding the investigation contact the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Tips Line at 1-877-TIPS-4EC or 1-877-847-7432.
It is not currently clear if Burbank has entered a plea or retained legal counsel following his arrest. The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office did not immediately respond to Us Weekly’s request for comment regarding updates in the case.
If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673).
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