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A special education teacher from Hyde Park has been charged with the sexual exploitation of minors. Daniel Monarchi, 26, who taught at Haviland Middle School, allegedly engaged in sexually explicit conversations with three teenage girls, aged 13 and 14, via the chat app Discord.
According to a complaint unsealed in federal court, Monarchi used the alias "mrteacherman" to contact the victims, asking them to send explicit images and videos. The investigation began after the sister of one victim discovered the inappropriate chats and alerted authorities. Federal officials, including U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton and FBI Assistant Director Christopher G. Raia, emphasized the seriousness of the charges and urged anyone with additional information to contact the FBI tip line.
Monarchi was arrested and presented in White Plains federal court on Friday (August 22), facing a charge that carries a potential sentence of 15 to 30 years in prison. As reported by the U.S. Attorney's Office, Monarchi's alleged actions took place while he was employed at the school, though investigators do not believe any Hyde Park students were involved.
The Hyde Park Central School District has expressed deep concern over the situation, reaffirming its commitment to student safety. The FBI continues to investigate, believing there may be more victims. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the FBI through its toll-free tip line at 1-800-CALL-FBI.