Former Babylon High School Teacher Pleads Guilty in Student Sex Case
A former high school teacher from Babylon, New York, has admitted to endangering a child’s welfare by engaging in sexual activity with a 15-year-old student nearly a decade ago.
Guilty Plea and License Surrender
Timothy Harrison, a 48-year-old resident of Oak Beach, New York, entered a guilty plea as part of an agreement on Friday. One of the key conditions of the plea deal is that he must give up his teaching license.
Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney remarked, “This defendant abused his role as an educator and preyed on a teenaged student. Instead of being a teacher, he took advantage of her. The courage shown by this young woman in reporting this crime even though it had occurred eight years earlier is amazing. This guilty plea ensures that Harrison will no longer be a teacher, and as such, current and future students will be protected from his predatory behavior.”
The Allegations
According to the district attorney’s office, the investigation revealed that between September and November 2013, Harrison exchanged flirtatious text messages with the 15-year-old victim. He also provided her with alcohol and engaged in sexual intercourse and oral sexual conduct with her at his Oak Beach residence.
The victim reported the sexual abuse to Babylon High School in 2021, eventually turning to the Suffolk County Police Department’s Special Victim Section.
Arrest and Legal Proceedings
Harrison was taken into custody on March 3, 2022. On Friday, he appeared before Suffolk County Court Judge Karen M. Wilutis, where he pleaded guilty to endangering the welfare of a child, a misdemeanor.
His sentencing is scheduled for November 9, 2023.
A Call to Report Sexual Abuse
Tierney urged anyone who believes they have been sexually abused to come forward and report these crimes, regardless of how long ago they occurred. “We are thankful that this victim stepped forward as reporting predators will protect others.”
Let’s ensure the safety and well-being of all students.