On Friday, August 7, school officials at Niskayuna Central School District were notified by the Niskayuna Police Department that Joseph Annello was arrested and charged with statutory rape; endangering the welfare of a child and unlawfully dealing with a minor. Anello was previously a parent volunteer with Niskayuna High School girls’ varsity softball team. The charges are alleged to involve a minor female high school student.
Annello volunteered with the team for the past several years, but at no time was he employed by the district. He currently has no official connection with the district.
School officials have no information at this time that indicates there are any other victims. The district has not yet been provided with all of the specifics of the criminal charges, but will continue to cooperate with the Niskayuna Police Department and the Schenectady County District Attorney in the investigation of this matter.
In addition, the district will report the allegation and details of the investigation thus far to New York State Education Department, as required by law.
The district will follow a course of action that includes respecting the rights of the accused while, at the same time, taking all measures possible to ensure the welfare and safety of our students.
Anyone with concerns or information that may be helpful to the investigation of this matter should call the Niskayuna Police Department at 518 386 4585.
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