NJ Middle School Band Teacher Arrested For Sexting In Classroom, Police Say

HOPATCONG, NJ — A band teacher was recently arrested for lewdness, according to the Hopatcong Police Department.

Albert J. Cerulo III, a music teacher at Hopatcong Middle School, was arrested on June 9 for lewdness in the classroom, according to NJ courts sites.

According to officials, on June 2, Cerulo had "exposed his intimate parts" in his classroom during school hours. Court documents show that the behavior was observed by a child under 13.

Documents also indicate that Cerulo is in his mid-forties.

"The charge specifically alleges that Mr. Cerulo, while employed as a teacher at Hopatcong Middle School, engaged in lewd conduct by sending images of his erect penis while in an open classroom during school hours," said Hopatcong Lt. Ryan Tracey.

The investigation into Cerulo’s actions was conducted by the Hopatcong Police Department and the Sussex County Prosecutor’s Office.

He was released from custody and is awaiting court proceedings, according to officials.

The Hopatcong Police Department or the Sussex County Prosecutor's Office has not offered more information at this time.

Authorities ask that anyone with information related to this investigation contact Detective Sergeant Anthony Cirri of the Hopatcong Police Department at 973-398-5000.

Officials added that support services and counseling are available through the Hopatcong Borough School District for any students or staff affected by the alleged crime.