New Haven police say an assistant principal at Hillhouse High School sexually assaulted a girl in his office during the school day.
Daniel Bonet, 49, has been on leave since the incidents were reported in May. He turned himself in Monday night, and was initially held on $250,000 bond on two charges of second degree sexual assault and two charges of fourth degree sexual assault.
Police a say a female student reported attacks on consecutive days in Bonet’s office after he arranged to be alone with her during school hours.
But the girl says on May 21, when Bonet asked about how things were going at home, the student started to cry and he kissed her. The student says the next day, Bonet kissed her again and touched her inappropriately.
Police say there’s video surveillance to back up the allegations, plus additional statements from witnesses and staff.
The Department of Children and Families (DCF) is also investigating.
Bonet’s attorney, Don Cretella of New Haven, did not respond Tuesday to WTIC's request for comment.
New Haven Public Schools spokesperson Justin Harmon issued a statement:
Today we informed Hillhouse High School families that a warrant has been issued for a James Hillhouse High School (JHHS) administrator charged with allegedly sexually assaulting an underage student.
The alleged behavior was reported by the student; the administrator was immediately placed on leave in accordance with NHPS protocols. At the same time, the Department of Children and Families and the police launched investigations. An interim replacement will fill the vacant position.
We are working with our school social workers and specialized staff to support our students and staff. JHHS and NHPS are committed to maintaining a healthy and supportive school community. Support is available for any students and staff who need it.
Nothing is more important than the safety of our students. Hillhouse families with questions or concerns have been invited to reach out to the school.
New Haven Mayor Justin Elicker also issued a statement:
The allegations of sexual assault and the arrest of this school administrator are extremely disturbing and rightfully shock the conscience of every student, parent and educator at the Hillhouse High School community. Our schools must always be safe and supportive places where our students can learn, grow and thrive.
Once New Haven Public Schools was made aware of these allegations, the administrator was immediately put on leave and the allegations were promptly investigated by the New Haven Police Department, resulting in yesterday’s arrest.
This individual will be held accountable for their actions to the fullest extent of the law, and New Haven Public Schools will be there to support this student and the larger school community during this difficult time.
The New Haven Independent reports Bonet was placed on leave in 2019 as principal of the Daniels School. Then, he was accused of staff harassment and noncompliance with DCF reporting mandates, allegations he denied.
