Two New York City school teachers were arrested and placed on administrative leave after allegedly punching and improperly touching 12-year-old students in two separate incidents, officials said.
Brian Thomas, 33, was arrested after he allegedly punched a tween boy inside PS 161 in Manhattanville just after 12:30 p.m. on Thursday according to police.
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Thomas was charged with endangering the welfare of a child and harassment.
A short time later in the Bronx, Mohamed Baksh, 70, was arrested on charges of sexual misconduct, forcible touching and endangering the welfare of a child.
The arrest took place within the confines of the 42nd Precinct.
The female student told authorities that Baksh grabbed her breast while trying to give her a hug.
“This alleged behavior is very troubling and completely unacceptable,” Jenna Lyle, a Department of Education spokeswoman, said about Thomas’ arrest. “This employee has been reassigned away from the school and students pending the outcome of the arrest and if convicted, we will pursue termination.”
Lyle said Baksh’s alleged behavior was “ concerning and unacceptable.”
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She added that Baksh has also been reassigned away from students, and that the department would move to fire him if he is convicted.
