Columbia High School Principal Frank Sanchez turned himself in to the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office this morning after a warrant was issued for his arrest on Friday, March 8.
Per Chief Assistant Prosecutor Thomas S. Fennelly, Sanchez “has been charged with one count of 2nd degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child and one count of Simple Assault, a disorderly persons offenses. The charges are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.”
Fennelly said that Sanchez “surrendered to detectives from the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office earlier today and is in custody pending an appearance in Essex County Central Judicial Processing (CJP) Court.” Fennelly said that appearance will probably take place Tuesday, March 12.
Per NJ Education Report, “the charges reflect an incident in March of last year when a tenth-grade female student, who is Black, was allegedly assaulted by Sanchez.”
Sanchez was placed on administrative leave in a surprise announcement in early January. On Feb. 29, Acting Supt. Dr. Kevin Gilbert indicated that Sanchez’s leave would be continuing into March.
In a statement released today, Gilbert said, “I am deeply saddened by the news of charges against the Columbia High School principal, the latest in a series of unexpected events that have happened in our District during this school year. No matter what our feelings may be at this time, our focus must be on meeting the needs of Columbia High School students, their families, and staff. I am working with my administration colleagues to make sure we continue to fulfill our obligations to the people we serve.”
This story will be updated.
