Ex-high school teacher accused of making sexual overtures to student avoids prison – NJ.com

A former Millburn High School English teacher who authorities said made sexual overtures to a student has cut a deal with prosecutors to avoid prison time by entering a program for first-time offenders.

Joseph Pedulla was accepted into a 2-year pre-trial intervention program on Friday, a spokeswoman for the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office said Wednesday.

Pedulla was 57 and lived in Monroe in Middlesex County when he was arrested and charged with child endangerment in June, officials said.

If he successfully completes PTI, fourth-degree charges of stalking and neglect of a child will be dismissed, the spokeswoman said. Pedulla was ordered to have no contact with the victim of her family and to undergo counseling.

Pedulla made the overtures by text and in person during 2018-19 school year, the spokeswoman said in June. The victim was 17 when she reported Pedulla to police.

According to an affidavit of probable cause, Pedulla told the teen, “I want to make love to you,” NorthJersey.com reported.

Pedulla was paid an annual salary of $102,330 before forfeiting his teaching certificate.

Jeff Goldman may be reached at jeff_goldman@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @JeffSGoldman.

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