Science teacher placed on administrative leave following firearm-related charges

MIDDLETOWN — A middle school science teacher has been placed on administrative leave following charges of several firearm-related offenses, including two felonies, records show.

Thomas Pepe, who is listed as a Beman Middle School science teacher on the Middletown Public Schools website, was arrested by Portland police Jan. 30 and charged with four firearm-related offenses, two of which are felonies, according to the state’s Judicial Branch website. Pepe was also charged with second-degree breach of peace and second-degree reckless endangerment, judicial records show.

Pepe was released on $5,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in Middlesex Superior Court on March 17, the judicial site says.

In a letter sent to MPS employees and families Saturday afternoon, Superintendent of Schools Alberto Vazquez Matos said the district was notified this past week that one of its employees had been arrested for “numerous firearm related charges.” According to Matos, the employee “remains” on administrative leave pending an investigation. The superintendent did not specify when the staff member was placed on leave, nor did he name Pepe in the letter.

“While the employee did not engage in unlawful activities while at work, I understand that receiving this information may cause some concern,” Matos wrote. “Nonetheless, I take this opportunity to reaffirm my and the District’s unwavering commitment to the well-being and safety of students and staff.

“Personnel matters are confidential and I cannot share any further details with respect to this matter,” he added.

When asked about Pepe being placed on administrative leave, MPS spokesperson Jessie Lavorgna referred Hearst Connecticut Media to the superintendent’s letter.

Hearst Connecticut Media file photo Thomas Pepe, who is listed as a science teacher at Beman Middle School in Middletown, has been charged with several firearm-related offenses, including two felonies.