By Kendrick Marshall
Lake County News-Sun
April 9, 2009
http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/newssun/news/1519187,5_1_WA09_PIROZZI_S1.article
A Beach Park principal told Lake County authorities that he had gone too far after being arrested for sexually abusing an 11-year-old girl last month.
Daniel R. Pirozzi, 54 of 39236, Green Bay Road, No. 2, Beach Park, was charged with a single count of criminal sexual abuse following allegations that came to light over the weekend, said Lake County Sheriff Mark Curran.
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| Daniel R. Pirozzi |
Pirozzi is the current principal at the Biblical Baptist Church Academy at 39236 N. Green Bay Road.
Investigators said the girl's family members contacted the Lake County Sheriff's Office April 4 detailing the allegations of the abuse that began in March.
The victim, a student at the academy, told investigators Pirozzi would hold "secret meetings" with her in his office or in different areas of the church. Curran said Pirozzi would then hug and kiss the girl. On at least one occasion it is believed the man placed his hand on the girl's breasts.
Pirozzi, who was picked up Monday following the investigation, admitted in a statement to police that his involvement with the victim "had gone too far."
"It is always disheartening to see a person of trust prey on those he is entrusted with," Curran said.
Pirozzi has been a parishioner at the church for the past six years and has worked as the principal of the academy for the last three.
If convicted of the Class 2 felony, Pirozzi could spend up to seven years in prison.
Pirozzi is currently in custody at the Lake County jail in lieu of $200,000 bond. He is scheduled to appear in court April 13.
Curran said any concerned parents who believe their child may have been a victim are asked to call the Lake County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Division at (847) 377-4250.
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