Hudson Valley Teacher Accused Of Pinching Nonverbal Students: Police

HYDE PARK, NY — A teacher at Abilities First has been arrested amid claims that he pinched two nonverbal students, according to police.

The teacher, Ibrahim Mohammed, 54, of Hyde Park, was charged Aug. 14 with two counts of endangering the welfare of a child, a class A misdemeanor, state police said.

The New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation in Rhinebeck responded to Abilities First on Aug. 5, after receiving a report about an incident involving a teacher and students, according to police.

Mohammed was issued an appearance ticket, and he is due to appear in the Town of Hyde Park Court on Aug. 27.

Abilities First President and CEO Jeffery Fox said in an emailed statement Wednesday: “Upon learning of the allegations, Abilities First immediately notified law enforcement and placed the staff member on administrative leave pending the outcome of both the police investigation and our internal review.”

According to Fox, Abilities First has cooperated fully with the New York State Police throughout its investigation.

“The safety and well-being of our students are our highest priorities,” Fox added. “Abilities First remains deeply committed to providing every student and family we serve with an excellent education, compassionate care, and a safe, supportive environment. Because this matter involves students and remains an active personnel and legal matter, we are unable to provide further details at this time.”