ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY, Md. — A teacher at Severna Park Elementary School has been arrested after allegedly abusing students.
Matthew Schlegel, 44, was charged with criminal charges ranging from 2nd-degree assault to sex abuse of a minor.
In total, he faces 36 charges.
Anne Arundel County Police opened the investigation in March 2024.
Charging documents say the alleged incidents happened during Schlegel's class.
Police talked to eight students who shared their inappropriate experiences with the teacher.
One student said Schlegel would crouch down next to her desk and put his hand on her thigh. Another witness said they saw the victims on Schlegel's lap during class.
A letter was sent home to parents saying he was removed from the school on March 18.
Then, another letter was sent to parents saying, "An allegation involving Mr. Schlegel was presented to me and, as is the normal course of action, I immediately reported that allegation to our school system’s Office of Investigations so that it could be appropriately addressed. It is not uncommon for that office to remove staff from positions of direct contact with students while issues are investigated."
He was arrested at his home on May 16.
He's currently being held without bond.
Spokesperson for Anne Arundel County Schools Bob Mosier issued the following statement:
“This is an issue that has had a dramatic impact on this school community since the first allegation came to light months ago. Our school system immediately reassigned Mr. Schlegel and he no longer works in any capacity in the system where students are present. We also have provided – and continue to provide – resources for students and staff at the school.”
Although an arrest has been made, detectives are asking anyone with information on this case to call the TipLine at 410-222-4733.
