(JTA) — A former teacher at a Seattle Jewish day school pleaded not guilty to charges that he molested young students.
Jordan Murray, 32, pleaded not guilty on Monday to four counts of child molestation. He is free on bail and was ordered by the judge to have no contact with children except his own three, who live with their mother in another state, according to KIRO-TV.
Murray, who taught first and second grade at the Torah Day School, is alleged to have molested two female students behind his desk in front of other students. He allegedly groped the girls after putting them on his lap.
He was fired following the incidents, which reportedly occurred late last month.
The students called Murray Rabbi Yaakov, using rabbi as an honorific title. He does not have rabbinic training.
Murray reportedly has no criminal record.
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency powers the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for more than 100 years. With your help, JTA can continue to deliver vital news and insights. Donate today.
