New jersey special education teacher was high in class and arrested for child neglect

New Jersey special education teacher was high in class and arrested for child neglect

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1 min read
April 2, 2026

Bergen County prosecutor says teacher accused of neglect involving minors

Hackensack, NJ – A Nutley woman working in an educational role has been charged with child neglect following an investigation into alleged drug use while supervising minors, authorities announced.

Jenna Junio, 41, was arrested March 30 in Hackensack and charged with fourth-degree cruelty and neglect of a child, according to Bergen County Prosecutor Mark Musella. The case stems from an investigation led by the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office Special Victims Unit.

The investigation began March 11, when the Division of Child Protection and Permanency reported an alleged incident involving children under Junio’s supervision. Authorities said the alleged conduct occurred while she was acting in her capacity as a teacher responsible for minors.

Investigation details and arrest


Key Points

  • Nutley woman charged with child neglect after investigation into alleged conduct
  • Authorities say she used narcotics while supervising minors as a teacher
  • Arrest made March 30; defendant released pending further court proceedings

According to prosecutors, the investigation determined that Junio “used narcotics while performing her duties as a teacher and supervising minors under the age of 18.”

She was taken into custody without incident, transported to the Bergen County Jail, and later appeared in Bergen County Superior Court. Officials said she was subsequently released pending further court action.

Case initiated by child protection agency

The case originated from a referral by the state’s child protection agency, prompting a joint investigation into the allegations. Authorities have not released additional details about the children involved or the specific circumstances surrounding the case.

Phil Stilton

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