5th Greeley Student Comes Forward in Drama Teacher Sex Scandal

A fifth Horace Greeley High School student has come forward accusing former drama teacher Christopher Schraufnagel of improper sexual encounters, The Journal News reports. According to TJN, a notice of claim was filed this week in state Supreme Court.

According to the papers, the 16-year-old told his parents June 11, 2015 and told school officials four days later. Among the accusations against the teacher are that he engaged students in games with sexual overtones, inappropriate touching, and alcohol and drug use. Lawyers for Schraufnagel and the Chappaqua school district did not return calls from the paper and the district has said it will not comment on pending litigation, reporter Jorge Fitz-Gibbon wrote.

Three other students have already filed a civil suit against the teacher and the district, and a fourth has petitioned to join that case.

Read the whole article on lohud.com.

Schraufnagel was placed on paid leave in June 2015 during an investigation into his interaction with students. He resigned at the beginning of the school year, in September. He had taught speech and theater for 12 years at Horace Greeley High School.

He has been charged by New Castle police with one count of third-degree criminal sex act, a felony; two counts of endangering the welfare of a child; and four counts of third-degree sexual abuse, all misdemeanors.

He may get a plea deal on the criminal charges. Tom Auchterlonie of the Daily Voice reported that it was discussed at Schraufnagel's recent court appearance.

Chappaqua Central School District’s attorneys said in court papers earlier this month that the four students, who were 15 at the time, caused or contributed to the abuse by being careless, reckless and negligent, according to news reports.

SEE:

• Chappaqua School District Attorneys Say Students to Blame for Abuse By Ex-Drama Teacher
• UPDATE: Greeley Drama Teacher on Leave Since June Resigns