Sep 23, 2009 7:39 pm US/Eastern
Bronx H.S. Dean Accused Of Molesting Student
BRONX (CBS) ―
Disturbing accusations were brought against a Bronx high school dean, who was once named Teacher of the Year.
The Urban Assembly Academy is one of the few all-male schools in New York City. It's housed in the larger Taft High School complex. Several students spoke highly of the dean arrested Tuesday on charges of allegedly molesting a 14-year-old boy in his office over the weekend.
Jonathan Huff, 40, of Roosevelt Island, was named Teacher of the Year in 2007, but now a student told police Huff lured him into his office during a Saturday session of school and allegedly touched the boy's genitals over his clothes.
Police arrested Huff Tuesday after a 9-1-1 call was placed from the school Monday, once the boy told school officials what he claims happened.
Students were shocked to learn of the news. Tenth grader David Williams was asked whose story he believed in the incident. "The 14-year-old boy. Why would he lie like that?" he said.
The United Federation of Teachers released a statement demanding an investigation, saying, "Such serious accusations must be investigated. Sexual contact between staff and students is always inappropriate."
To many of the boys who attend the small high school, where uniforms, are required, Huff is someone they looked up to and they can't believe the charges.
"He was like a role model to most of the students," said twelfth grader Sayyid Washington. "He inspired us. I didn't believe it at first when they told us what happened. I still don't believe it."
Huff published a novel called "Alone Boy," the story of a 14-year-old's coming of age. Huff also writes a blog on the school's Web site.
Huff started teaching at Urban Assembly Academy four years ago. He was made dean last year, but now the Department of Education says he will be reassigned.
Huff has been charged with forcible touching, sex abuse and endangering the welfare of a child. He did not respond to CBS 2's requests for an interview.
(© MMX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
World's Most Useless Facts
Click to enlarge
Looming Storm Likely To Bury NYC, Suburbs 18 mins ago 
Stumble It!
Reporting
Comments