Guidance Counselor Accused of Sexually Abusing Middle School Student

• A Connecticut school guidance counselor, Luisa Melchionne, has been accused of sexually abusing a 13-year-old middle school student
• Allegations include Melchionne sending explicit photos, money, and performing “lap dances” on the 7th grade boy
• Melchionne was arrested and charged with sexual assault and risk of injury to a minor, and has since resigned from her position
• This case highlights the issue of sexual misconduct by school staff and the need for stronger safeguards to protect vulnerable students

A Connecticut school guidance counselor, Luisa Melchionne, has been accused of sexually abusing a 13-year-old middle school student under her care. The shocking allegations include Melchionne sending explicit photos, money, and even performing “lap dances” on the 7th grade boy.

Wiki and Bio Details

Allegations of Sexual Abuse and Misconduct

According to the arrest warrant, an anonymous caller tipped off the police in April 2024 about inappropriate messages allegedly sent by Melchionne to a student after the caller borrowed her phone. The police later obtained screenshots of explicit text exchanges and financial transactions between the guidance counselor and the student.

During the investigation, the 13-year-old victim told detectives that Melchionne had sent him nude photos and asked for them in return. He also said she would give him money for food and rides, including $100 as a Christmas gift in 2023.

The most disturbing allegations are that Melchionne would meet the student in her office, where she would perform sexual acts, including “lap dances.” The student, who was a 7th grader when the abuse began in 2023, described these encounters to the police.

Resignation and Legal Proceedings

Luisa Melchionne, a 47-year-old resident of New Canaan, Connecticut, was arrested on July 11, 2024 and charged with sexual assault in the second degree and two counts of risk of injury to a minor. Her defense attorney, Mark Sherman, stated that Melchionne had resigned from her position at Nathan Hale Middle School.

In court, a prosecutor stated that the victim was 13 years old at the time of the alleged abuse. Melchionne was released on bond, but her attorney acknowledged that it will “take some time to investigate this case.”

Broader Context and Implications

This case highlights the disturbing trend of sexual misconduct by school staff, particularly guidance counselors who are entrusted with the wellbeing of vulnerable students. It raises questions about the vetting and oversight processes in place to protect children from predatory behavior by educators.

The allegations against Melchionne are particularly egregious, as she is accused of exploiting her position of authority and trust to sexually abuse a middle school student. This breach of professional ethics and the law is a serious violation that can have long-lasting trauma for the victim.

FAQs

Q: What were the specific allegations against Luisa Melchionne?

A: According to the arrest warrant, Melchionne was accused of sending explicit photos to the 13-year-old student, giving him money for food and rides, and performing sexual acts including “lap dances” with him in her office.

Q: What were the legal consequences for Melchionne?

A: Melchionne was arrested and charged with sexual assault in the second degree and two counts of risk of injury to a minor. She was released on bond, and her defense attorney acknowledged it will take time to investigate the case.

Q: How did the school district respond to the allegations?

A: In a statement, Norwalk Public Schools said “The safety of our students is our first concern. Luisa Melchionne is no longer employed by Norwalk Public Schools. Norwalk Public Schools is cooperating with the Norwalk Police Department’s investigation and has no further comment.”

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