Today marks the commencement of a trial that is poised to thoroughly examine the disturbing allegations against a former Anne Arundel County elementary school teacher. Matthew Schlegel stands accused of a multitude of charges involving child sexual abuse and assault, with prosecutors detailing incidents that they say spanned from August 2022 to March 2024. According to CBS News Baltimore, Schlegel, who began his tenure at the county's school district back in 2008 and subsequently moved to Severna Park Elementary in 2016, is currently facing at least 36 charges ranging from second-degree assault to sex abuse of a minor.
The trial is set to delve into allegations brought forth by eight former third-grade students from Severna Park Elementary School. Court documents reportedly reveal that Schlegel is accused of having inappropriately touched students both during class and in the bathroom, with some incidents alleged to have occurred in the presence of other students. A harrowing statement cited by WBAL captures the conflicted feelings of one young girl: "I still want Mr. Schlegel to be my teacher. I just want him to stop touching me." The same source notes that Schlegel's conduct ostensibly continued unchecked for nearly two years, raising serious questions about systemic safeguards for student safety.
Anne Arundel County police have undertaken a rigorous investigation, conducting numerous forensic interviews since allegations surfaced in March 2024. Schlegel was swiftly removed from classroom duties by the Anne Arundel County Public School system on March 15, immediately after allegations came to light, as reported by CBS News Baltimore. Moreover, the gravity of the charges led to a denial of bail for Schlegel in May 2024, following a judge's declaration of being "deeply disturbed" at the circumstances.
