Diocese of Metuchen's Statement on St. Thomas Aquinas High School Faculty Member

The administration of St. Thomas Aquinas High School cooperated with local, county, and state law enforcement in an investigation which, this morning, led to authorities to search the school. Administrators cooperated fully and were on hand to help facilitate the process.

Unfortunately, we are aware that a member of the St. Thomas Aquinas faculty was the target of this investigation and has subsequently been charged with serious crimes which include invasion of privacy and child endangerment.  Law enforcement officials have informed us that the places where these alleged crimes took place included, sadly, St. Thomas Aquinas High School.

Our preliminary investigation into this employee’s employment records shows nothing present that would have indicated any cause for concern. He was subject to the required criminal background checks and was up to date and in compliance with all the policies and training requirements mandated by the school and the diocese.

We are devastated to learn that some of our students’ privacy may have been violated by this sickening conduct. The safety of our students is always a top priority of St. Thomas Aquinas high school and the Diocese of Metuchen. The actions of this individual, if true, are a betrayal of the trust of our students, faculty, and administration. School counselors stand ready to assist any student, and we will be working with the law enforcement community to ascertain if there are any better ways to safeguard our students from such nefarious and contemptible behavior.

Of course, we also turn to almighty God, asking Him to grant healing and peace to all survivors of exploitation and abuse.
 
MEDIA CONTACT:
Anthony P. Kearns III, Esq
Chancellor
Office of the Chancellor
Diocese of Metuchen
chancellor@diometuchen.org