Chicago Injury Lawyer Blog
A far north side elementary school principal has been charged with criminal sexual abuse as a result of his inappropriate contact with an 11 year-old student. According to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, Daniel R. Pirozzi, of the 39000 block of North Green Bay Rd. Apt. #2, in Beach Park, IL, has been charged with one count of criminal sexual abuse – a Class 2 felony punishable by up to seven years in prison. He is the principal at Biblical Baptist Church Academy in Beach Park, IL. The sexual abuse allegations came to light last weekend when members of the girl’s family contacted the Sheriff’s Office. The elementary school girl told investigators that Pirozzi would conduct secret meetings with her in his office and in the church. During these meetings, Pirozzi would allegedly hug and kiss the victim and, on at least one occasion, fondle her breasts.
Pirozzo has been the principal of the academy for the last three years where he oversees children ranging from kindergarten through 12th grade. He has reportedly admitted in a statement to the police that his involvement with the victim had gone too far. Pirozzo remains in Lake County jail facing an Appril13th court date. Police are urging parents of children at the academy to speak with their children regarding any contact with Pirozzo. Parents are asked to call the Criminal Investigations Division at (847) 377-4250 if they believe their child may have been a victim.
Because sexual abuse events can be so traumatic, victims are often reluctant to come forward and expose predators. As a victim’s rights advocate, Chicago attorney Joseph G. Klest understands the often sensitive and emotional nature of sexual abuse cases. Contact Illinois sexual abuse lawyer Joseph G. Klest for a free confidential initial consultation.