Rhode Island gym teacher accused of groping 3 girls
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — A gym teacher at a Providence elementary school has been accused of groping three fifth-grade girls.
The Providence Journal reports that 53-year-old James Duffy, of Warwick, was charged with five counts of child molestation. He was arraigned Thursday with bail set at $50,000 surety.
Duffy is accused of groping and rubbing against the girls during gym class and in a cafeteria over the past year at Harry Kizirian Elementary School.
It wasn’t immediately clear if Duffy has a lawyer.
School officials began investigating May 9 but didn’t immediately notify police or the state’s Department of Children, Youth and Families. State law requires the agency to be notified about possible abuse within 24 hours.
Acting Providence City Council President Sabina Matos is calling for an independent investigation.
School officials said they’re reviewing protocols.
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Information from: The Providence Journal, http://www.providencejournal.com
