A Maryland Catholic school is facing multiple DUI charges following his arrest on Feb. 25 in Isle of Wight Park. The 64-year-old man was also cited for negligent driving, obstructing a roadway and endangering life and property. It wasn’t reported whether he was involved in a crash or under what circumstances he was arrested.
Although a DUI charge and certainly a conviction can have job ramifications for teachers and others in careers where they deal with children, it’s not known if that has been the case for this man. He works at Berlin’s Most Blessed Sacrament Catholic School. That school is overseen by the Catholic Diocese of Wilmington. He is still listed as the principal on the website of the school, which teaches pre-kindergarten through eighth grade.
When recently asked about the principal, a spokesperson for the diocese told a Maryland reporter that it is their policy to “strive always to uphold the school’s mission of fostering a faith-filled environment in partnership with families, emphasizing reverence, respect, and personal responsibility in the traditional spirit of Christian teaching.” The spokesperson said that it is their policy “to not comment publicly on personnel matters.”
Teachers, administrators and others employed by Catholic and other private schools may face different sanctions, if any, than those who work in public school districts. However, all schools are subject to potential complaints by parents if they don’t take action against an employee who has been charged with or convicted of a crime.
A DUI can have serious ramifications beyond the legal consequences. It’s always wise not to deal with DUI-related charges alone. Experienced Maryland DUI attorneys can provide essential guidance and work to protect your rights.
Source: WMDT 47 ABC, “Md. catholic school principal arrested on multiple DUI charges,” Tahja Cropper, March 22, 2018
