Teacher Fired, Investigated Over Inappropriate Photos Of Female Students

BERWICK, MAINE (CBS) - A long-time chemistry teacher and girls basketball coach at the prestigious Berwick Academy in Maine has been fired and is the target of a police investigation.

The teacher, whom WBZ-TV is not identifying because he is not yet charged with any crime, is accused of taking inappropriate photos of female students on campus without their knowledge.

"I've never been in any kind of situation like this before," said the teacher at his home Friday. "I've made a bad mistake and I certainly never meant to hurt anybody."

Police won't say where on campus the alleged incident happened but they say a student recently witnessed photos being taken, and told school officials.

Greg Schneider, Head of School at Berwick Academy, said in a statement that the school took immediate action upon learning of the allegations.

"School officials were recently made aware of allegations of misconduct involving a teacher taking inappropriate photographs of students on campus without their knowledge. Upon confirming the validity of these allegations, we took swift internal actions to end this teacher's employment, and we immediately reported this situation to local law enforcement," the statement said.

Police executed a search warrant at the teacher's home this week and seized a laptop, two iPads, a camera and a Wii gaming system, according to South Berwick Police Chief Dana Lajoie.

"I've caused, you know, hurt and a problem for a good many people here," said the teacher. "I'm sorry doesn't cut it sometimes. I can't tell you how sorry I am."

All of the evidence seized is now undergoing a forensic exam to determine how many photos there may be.

Police say charges and an arrest are expected next week.

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