Bloomfield Teacher Sexually Assaulted 13-Year-Old Student, Prosecutors Say

BLOOMFIELD, NJ — A Middlesex County resident who teaches at a middle school in Bloomfield has been accused of sexually assaulting a former student, prosecutors announced Monday.

Daniel Burbank, 37, of Monroe Township, was arrested on Friday and charged with attempted aggravated sexual assault, sexual assault, sexual contact, criminal restraint, endangering the welfare of a child and luring.

Burbank is a teacher and band director at Bloomfield Middle School and an assistant band director at Bloomfield High School, the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office said.

Prosecutors accused Burbank of engaging in inappropriate sexual conduct when the victim was 13-years-old and a student at Bloomfield Middle School.

The conduct continued while the victim attended Bloomfield High School, prosecutors alleged.

No additional information was immediately available. Authorities said anyone with information related to this investigation can contact the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Tips Line at 1-877-TIPS-4EC or 1-877-847-7432.

TEACHER PLACED ON LEAVE

Bloomfield School Superintendent Salvatore Goncalves issued a statement about the charges on Monday.

The superintendent wrote:

"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."

"Because this is currently an active investigation and a confidential personnel matter, the district can make no further comment at this time," Goncalves added. "We appreciate your understanding."

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