A substitute teacher in Hialeah has been denied bond as he awaits trial for allegedly engaging in lewd and inappropriate conduct with students at a local middle school. The teacher, identified as Elmer Melendez, 42, faces multiple charges related to molestation of children aged 12 to 16. The case gained attention after police revealed that statements had been taken from four alleged victims.
Initially, Melendez was accused of inappropriate conduct involving three girls at Palm Springs Middle School. However, recent developments include a statement from a fourth victim. The charges led to his arrest on December 19, with allegations including lewd and lascivious molestation, among other crimes.
During the bond hearing, Miami Dade Schools Police Department’s detective detailed the accusations. The detective explained that Melendez not only engaged in inappropriate touching but also whispered in the ear of one student and summoned a student out of class to meet with them privately.
The investigation began after the school’s administration reportedly received an email from a parent expressing concern over Melendez’s behavior with a 13-year-old and two other students. The report noted that the victims were hesitant to report the incidents due to Melendez’s authority position.
At the bond hearing, Melendez’s wife testified in his defense, describing him as a friendly person who often helps others and asserting that he had never previously faced accusations or arrests. Despite her testimony, the judge decided that Melendez should remain in detention without bond.
Melendez was employed as a substitute teacher through Kelly Services and not directly by Miami-Dade County Public Schools. Following the allegations, the school district barred him from any teaching roles within the district. In response to the incident, the school district emphasized its commitment to maintaining a safe learning environment and expressed deep concern over the allegations against Melendez.
Elmer Melendez remains in custody, with the court denying bond as he faces serious charges of molestation involving young students. The case highlights critical discussions around the responsibility of safeguarding students within educational environments.
Source: Nbcmiami
