Attorney Denies 'Bizarre' Sex Abuse Allegations Against Long Island Substitute Teacher
PORT WASHINGTON, N.Y. (CBSNewYork/AP) -- A Long Island substitute teacher has been accused of sexually abusing two girls in his classroom.
It allegedly happened last month at Carrie Palmer Weber Middle School in the Nassau County hamlet of Port Washington, Police Chief James Salerno said.
An investigation began after one of the girl's parents made a complaint, Salerno said.
James Servin was arrested Thursday, police said. He was arraigned Friday in Hempstead on charges of endangering the welfare of a child, forcible touching and second-degree sexual abuse.
His attorney denies the allegations.
"It's a complete and total fabrication, and it's a bizarre set of circumstances to say the least, and I think these kids are making it up," attorney Marc Gann said. "There is conduct that's alleged to have taken place in a classroom, with other students, other teachers around, it just doesn't make sense."
Police are not releasing the details of the alleged abuse.
As CBS2's Magdalena Doris reported, court documents state James Servin told the victims they would "regret it" if they told anyone what happened.
The alleged abuse took place in a classroom, during class. Victims alleged that Servin touched their thigh, pelvis, and buttocks and made the threats after being asked to stop.
"I think there's a lot of weird stuff that's going on here," Gann said.
The 51-year-old has been a substitute teacher in the district for the past six years, WCBS 880's Mike Xirinachs reported.
School Superintendent Kathleen Mooney said he will no longer be called to ensure the safety of students and that the district is cooperating in the investigation.
Parents said it's a reminder to talk to your kids.
"We talked about there are these people out there, you have to be smart and aware," Jeff Jackson said.
Servin is free on $5,000 bail and is due back in court next month.
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