Former Wayne Substitute Teacher Charged With Heroin Possession

WAYNE, NJ — A Wayne Valley High School substitute teacher has been fired after he was arrested and charged with heroin possession because State Police found $2,200 worth of the substance during a traffic stop April 5.

Joseph Ginexi, 26, of Lincoln Park, was charged with possession of heroin, possession of heroin with intent to distribute and other drug-related charges after Trooper Gerald Dellagicoma stopped Sean Deckert on Interstate 80 West in Woodland Park for a traffic violation, state police said in a press release.

Dellagicoma discovered that Ginexi and Deckert were in possession of 551 bags of heroin, hypodermic needles and drug paraphernalia, police said. Deckert was also charged with possession of heroin, possession of heroin with intent to distribute and driving while intoxicated. Both men were released pending court appearances.

Ginexi was hired as a substitute math teacher in September 2016 to replace Nancy Fairchild. He taught Algebra. His annual salary was nearly $51,000 and he had medical benefits.

Superintendent of Schools Mark Toback said district officials were made aware of the situation and that Ginexi no longer works for the district.

"The situation was dealt with promptly and the district does not tolerate that kind of thing," Toback said. He declined further comment.

Send local news tips, photos, and press releases to daniel.hubbard@patch.com. Get Patch breaking news alerts sent right to your phone with our new app. Download here.

Photo: Joseph Ginexi, 26, of Lincoln Park — Courtesy of New Jersey State Police