HINGHAM, MASS. (WHDH) - A Scituate man who worked as a teacher in Hingham is facing criminal charges after authorities say he indecently assaulted a student in a classroom at the Saint Paul School last year.
Matthew Browne, 53, was arraigned Wednesday in Hingham District Court on charges including indecent assault and battery on a child under 14 and assault and battery, according to police.
Browne surrendered to police amid an investigation into an alleged incident involving a student that happened inside his classroom in October. He no longer works at the school.
A statement released by Saint Paul School read, in part, “This afternoon we were informed that Mr. Matthew Browne, a part-time music teacher, had been arrested and charged with indecent assault and battery on a student. It is understandable that you will have many questions and concerns. As this is an ongoing law enforcement matter we are not in a position to comment further at this time. Mr. Browne remains on administrative leave.
“In December we communicated to you we have followed established protocols, which guide us in situations such as we are reporting, and we are required to follow these to properly investigate and address any claims of inappropriate conduct. We are confident that law enforcement will handle this serious matter in a thorough and fair manner. Please rest assured that there is no greater priority than the safety of our students – your children.”
Browne has since been released from custody and is due back in court in March.
No additional information was immediately available.
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