Michelle Mercogliano abuse case: Pennsylvania special ed teacher faces 63 charges involving student SA and pot purchases
Get the Full StoryContent warning: This article describes child sexual abuse. Please take care while reading. Michelle Mercogliano, a 35-year-old special education teacher at Conestoga High School in Chester County, Pennsylvania, is facing 63 criminal counts following allegations of inappropriate conduct with a 16-year-old student. The Michelle Mercogliano abuse case charges include institutional sexual assault and corruption of minors. According to Pennsylvania police, she bought the student medical marijuana and had sexual encounters with the student at her parents home. The Michelle Mercogliano abuse case: Snapchat and text messages A teacher in Chester County is facing charges for allegedly having a sexual relationship with a Conestoga High School student. NBC10 s katyzachry has the latest details. https: t.co ji33CRt4xZ NBC10 Philadelphia NBCPhiladelphia May 1, 2025 According to the criminal complaint viewed by Pennsylvania news outlet WPVI, the alleged incidents began in February 2025. Authorities have accused Mercogliano of repeated sexual encounters with the male student, often after school hours. She reportedly communicated with the teenager via Snapchat and text messages. Reportedly, the victim told police the relationship began when he was late for class, and Mercogliano asked another student for his Snapchat handle to offer him a ride. The student accurately described Mercogliano s bedroom at her parents home, where he said the abuse happened. At least one encounter happened at the boy s home. According to Pennsylvania news outlet WFMZ, Mercogliano texted the boy several times during his police interview. The student s family contacted the Tredyffrin Township Police Department, which then initiated an investigation. The boy s sister reportedly told their parents about the alleged abuse. Parents and students should be able to trust their teachers Authorities have emphasized the seriousness of the allegations and are committed to supporting the victim and his family throughout the legal process. Upon learning of the allegations, the Tredyffrin Easttown School District immediately placed Mercogliano on leave. Superintendent Richard Gusick stated that, at this time, there is no evidence suggesting the involvement of other students. Since 2014, Mercogliano has worked as an academic support teacher at several grade levels for the Tredyffrin Easttown School District. Her LinkedIn page says she s an autistic support teacher at the district. Reportedly, she is also an adjunct Italian professor at Immaculata University in Chester County. Mercogliano has cooperated with investigators and is arranging to turn herself in through her attorney. The case has garnered significant attention, prompting discussions about student safety and educational institutions responsibilities. As the legal proceedings continue, the community awaits further developments and emphasizes the importance of due process and justice. After Mercogliano s charges were announced, the Chester County DA Christopher L. de Barrena-Sarobe said, Parents and students should be able to trust their teachers. The Defendant broke the law and destroyed that trust. It will not be tolerated. We are deeply troubled by these allegations, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Richard Gusick said in a letter to the community. The District remains committed to providing a safe and supportive school environment for all students. We encourage you to contact your child s Principal if any child needs support, Gusick added. If you know someone suffering from sexual violence, contact RAINN or the National Sexual Abuse Telephone Hotline at 1-800-656-4673Share: