Crime & Safety

Berlin Teacher Faces Sex Assault Charges

A Berlin teacher allegedly had a sexual relationship with a student.

MERIDEN, CT - A Berlin teacher is facing charges he allegedly had a relationship with a 17-year-old girl, according to the Meriden Record-Journal. Michael Cwirka, 29, of Meriden, has been arrested and charged with three counts counts of second-degree sexual assault and five counts of fourth-degree sexual assault.

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Cwirka, who teaches math and is the head coach of the swimming team, was put on leave in February. He denied the allegations through his lawyer. He appeared in court on Wednesday and didn't speak during the brief appearance, Fox 61 reports.

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A full no-contact protective order was issued in the case. Cwirka was the victim's swim coach and class adviser and she has since graduated, Fox 61 reports. Cwirka's attorney, Ryan McGuigan, told Fox 61 that his client "categorically denies these allegations so we await our day in court."

Read the full story in the Meriden Record-Journal.

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