School hallway - file photo by dreamstime — School hallway - File Photo by Dreamstime

WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. — A former music teacher at Hastings High School was arrested on Thursday on charges of sexually abusing an underaged student, according to Westchester County District Attorney Miriam E. Rocah.

Michael Rubino, 63, of Hartsdale, was taken into custody by investigators from the District Attorney’s Office and arraigned on charges of endangering the welfare of a child, sexual abuse in the third degree, and harassment in the second degree. Rubino, who taught music in the Hastings-on-Hudson Union Free School District for more than 20 years, is accused of engaging in unwanted physical contact with a student in June 2024.

According to the criminal complaint, the incident occurred on June 10, when Rubino allegedly took the student to the school auditorium at approximately 10:15 a.m., pulled them behind the curtains, and hugged and kissed them without consent. The complaint further alleges that Rubino rubbed the student’s back, kissed their cheek and neck, and attempted to kiss them on the lips.

The student immediately reported the incident to a teacher, who alerted school administrators. The Village of Hastings-on-Hudson Police Department was notified, and the case was referred to the District Attorney’s Office for further investigation. Rubino was placed on administrative leave by the district and later retired in July 2024.

“The alleged actions of this defendant, a long-time teacher, exploited the trust placed in him by the school, parents, students, and community when he allegedly sexually abused a student,” said DA Rocah. “We commend the brave young victim for coming forward.”

Rubino’s bail was set at $7,000 cash, $25,000 bond, or a $50,000 partially secured bond at 10%. He is scheduled to appear in court on September 18.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Stephanie Baehr of the Child Abuse Bureau within the Special Prosecutions Division. Authorities have urged anyone with information or who may have been victimized by the defendant to contact the DA’s Office Special Prosecutions Division at (914) 995-3000.

Language assistance is available for individuals who come forward with information.

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