Following an investigation into a claim that a youngster had been inappropriately touched in a classroom, police charged a Bedford Middle School teacher with sexual assault on Thursday.
After turning himself in at the Westport Police Department, Arthur Ellis, 72, of Westerly, R.I., was arrested on charges of fourth-degree sexual assault and danger of injury to a child, according to officials.
Westport police stated in a statement that they received a tip on Jan. 27 that Ellis had “probably touched a pupil inappropriately.”
The alleged attack took place in December “during class time,” according to police.
After an “extensive investigation,” police requested for a warrant for Ellis’ arrest, according to the statement.
Ellis’ arrest was announced to the Bedford school community by Westport Superintendent Thomas Scarice.
“Based on an accusation of inappropriate touching of a pupil by Mr. Ellis during class time,” Scarice stated, the school district filed a report with Westport police and the state Department of Children and Families on Jan. 27.
Ellis was “immediately placed on leave” and “has not been allowed on school grounds since that time,” according to Scarice.
Ellis is free on $100,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in state Superior Court in Stamford on May 6, according to police.
Last known contact information:
Address: 56 Fenway Rd Westerly, RI 02891
Phone: (203) 675-2558
Email: ARTHURELLIS@SBCGLOBAL.NET
