Kiryas Joel Officials Defend Principal Captured on Video from Overhead Camera

The Kiryas Joel school principal seen in two videos in close contact with young boys is being defended by school officials.

A statement issued by the Board of Directors of the United Talmudical Academy called the principal respected and someone with an unblemished record, according to an article at lohud.com.

The board said the videos were mischaracterized by the press and those critical of the Hasidic community.

Earlier this month, a video was posted on Facebook, which the social media company pulled down, that appeared to show a child standing between the man's legs while he stroked the child's face and kissed him. The camera was in the ceiling of the man's office.

The Times Herald-Record said the principal was embracing students who have problems with behavior and his actions do not rise to the level of criminal assault.

For the complete lohud.com article, go here. To read the Times Herald-Record article, click here.