A former Canfield schools band director is facing two misdemeanor charges following accusations that he inappropriately touched two teenagers at an Austintown restaurant. 

Michael L. Kelly, 51, of Warren, is charged with two counts of sexual imposition following the alleged incident at the restaurant on June 18. 

 

 

According to a police report, the restaurant's owner told police two of his employees, a 19-year-old male and a 15-year-old male, had been "groped" by a regular customer who he identified as Kelly, who was the Canfield Band Director at the time. 

The alleged incidents were captured on surveillance cameras at the restaurant, the report says. 

Austintown police contacted Canfield police to let them know of the allegations, who in turn notified the school superintendent. 

A warrant was issued for Kelly's arrest and he was picked up on Thursday. He is free on bond while he awaits a court appearance. 

If convicted, Kelly could face up to 120 days in jail. 

Police said Kelly has since resigned his position with the Canfield schools. 

In a letter to parents, superintendent Joe Knoll reiterated that the alleged incident does not involve any Canfield student and that it did not occur on school grounds. 

Knoll wrote in the letter that anyone with any concerns is encouraged to speak with Austintown police and/or school administrators. 

"Dear Canfield Community:

Safety is always our primary concern and keeping you informed is important to us.  

Yesterday, Thursday, June 30, I was informed by the Austintown Police Department that our High School Director of Bands was being charged with Sexual Imposition, a Third-Degree Misdemeanor.  The incident did not involve any Canfield Local School District students and did not occur on school property. 

The individual submitted his letter of resignation and is no longer employed by the Canfield Local School District. 

The position of High School Director of Bands will be posted as soon as possible and the high school band program will continue as scheduled.  

If any current or former student has a concern or wishes to speak with the Austintown Police Department regarding the case, please call 330-270-5109 and ask for Detective Jordan Yacovone.  In addition, our high school and central office staff are available to meet with students as needed.

Above all, we have a commitment to protecting the safety and security of our students, both physically and emotionally. We have and will continue to do so. 

Yours in Education,

Joe Knoll

Superintendent." 

In response to a request for comment, the Canfield school district issued the following statement: 

The Canfield Local School District has accepted the resignation effective immediately of the High School Director of Bands. 

“As a public employer, Canfield Local Schools must follow the appropriate procedures in the investigation of allegations of misconduct by a staff member.  On June 30, 2020, the administration of the Canfield Local School District became aware that an accusation has been made against a staff member. The administration acted immediately to ensure that this individual had no further contact with students or the school. We are fully cooperating with local authorities and will assist in the investigation if called upon,” says Superintendent Joe Knoll.

On the advice of Board legal counsel, no further public comment will be made."