NJ TEACHER AND AIDE ACCUSED OF TAPING 9-YEAR-OLD'S HEAD TO DESK SPARK PUBLIC OUTRAGE

A New Jersey elementary school teacher and a classroom aide are facing charges following allegations of a shocking classroom incident. Authorities announced Thursday that Todd Lewis, 57, of Wayne, has been charged with endangering the welfare of a child, while Sallyann Scala, 67, of Pompton Lakes, is charged with abuse and neglect of children.

According to prosecutors, a 9-year-old student at Lenox Elementary School in Pompton Lakes reported that earlier in October, Lewis allegedly placed masking tape around the back of the child’s neck, securing his head to a desk for 40-50 minutes. Scala, present during the incident, allegedly failed to intervene.

The allegations prompted an investigation by the Pompton Lakes Police Department and the Special Victims Unit, leading to charges against both Lewis and Scala. Lewis was charged by warrant, while Scala was issued a summons.

Lewis, who faces a potential prison sentence of five to ten years, was released on December 12 pending trial, under monitoring and strict conditions prohibiting contact with minors, including the victim. Scala, who faces up to 18 months in state prison, was served with a summons on December 11.

The case has drawn widespread criticism and raised questions about classroom safety and accountability in schools.