Maryland Teacher Accused of Touching 2 Students Inappropriately

John Vigna, 49, taught 3rd grade at Cloverly Elementary School

An elementary school teacher in Montgomery County, Maryland, was arrested Monday following allegations he touched two 11-year-old girls inappropriately, police said.

John Vigna -- a teacher at Cloverly Elementary School in Silver Spring and coach at Paint Branch High School in Burtonsville -- allegedly abused the first child at least four times between August 2014 and February 2016. Police said Vigna held the little girl on his lap on and touched her inappropriately.

Vigna, 49, also is accused of touching another child's buttocks while other students were not looking.

Police said that in February the victim and her friend went into a classroom, hugged Vigna and witnessed him make inappropriate contact with both girls.

The second victim reported the incident to her parents, who then called police.

Vigna was charged with two counts of sexual abuse of a minor and five counts of third-degree sexual offense. 

Vigna taught third grade at Cloverly Elementary School and coached junior varsity baseball at Paint Branch High School.

In a letter to parents, Melissa Brunson, the principal of Cloverly Elementary School, called the allegations against Vigna "disturbing and disappointing." 

"This behavior does not reflect the principles and values of Cloverly Elementary School, MCPS or our community, and it will not be tolerated or ignored, Brunson said. 

Vigna was placed on administrative leave in February and remained on leave for the rest of the school year. 

Police said parents who believe their child experienced similar abuse should call 240-773-5400.

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