Monroe Man Charged With Hitting On One Of His Students, Cops Say

MONROE TOWNSHIP, NJ — A Monroe Township man who works as a high school teacher in Millburn (Essex County) has been charged with making sexual overtures towards one of his students, according to Acting Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II.

Joseph Pedulla, 57, a teacher at Millburn High School, was arrested during the week of June 23 and charged with endangering the welfare of a student at the high school, according to Millburn Police Chief Brian Gilfedder.

It is alleged that sometime this year, Pedulla began repeatedly making inappropriate communications with the student. According to Assistant Prosecutor Jenna Gouck, who is handling the case, Pedulla made sexual overtures to the juvenile victim, who ultimately reported this to Millburn Police. Pedulla previously taught the victim, authorities said.

According to Millburn Superintendent Christine Burton, the district is aware of the situation and the administration is working with authorities on the matter.

"We cannot comment at this time as this is a personnel matter," she said in an email to Patch. "We will share information in the future as we are able."

Pedulla made his first appearance in court June 28.