A substitute teacher in Hialeah has been arrested on charges of inappropriate conduct with three students at a local middle school.
Elmer Melendez, a 42-year-old substitute teacher, was taken into custody following allegations of lewd and lascivious molestation involving three female students aged 12 to 16. The students, who attend Palm Springs Middle School, reported that the incidents occurred between September and November of the current year.
Authorities were alerted to the situation when a concerned parent emailed the school’s administration on December 4, mentioning Melendez’s inappropriate behavior towards a 13-year-old student along with two other girls. This prompted the school to involve law enforcement, leading to Melendez’s arrest on December 5.
Melendez, not directly employed by Miami-Dade County Public Schools, was contracted through Kelly Services to serve as a substitute. The arrest report noted that the victims delayed coming forward due to Melendez’s position as a figure of authority, which contributed to their fear.
The Miami-Dade County Public Schools expressed deep concern over the allegations, stating that the Miami-Dade Schools Police Department swiftly investigated the claims. As a result, Melendez is barred from future employment as a substitute teacher or in any other role within the district.
Despite these allegations, the school district has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a safe environment for all students and staff. The case underscores the importance of vigilance and swift action in the face of such allegations, ensuring student safety remains the top priority.
The arrest of Elmer Melendez highlights ongoing concerns about student safety within educational environments. As the investigation continues, the priority remains to support the affected students and uphold the integrity of the school system.
Source: Nbcmiami
