Salem Teacher Pleads Not Guilty to Sex Charges

SALEM, Massachusetts – Darren Benedick, a 42-year-old gym and health teacher from Salem, has pleaded not guilty to multiple charges, including enticement of a child under 16 and possession of child pornography. Benedick was arraigned in Essex County Superior Court on Friday, facing serious allegations stemming from an undercover operation where he allegedly attempted to arrange a sexual meeting with a 14-year-old girl. He was arrested on July 3 and indicted later on July 29. Benedick's attorney, Daniel Gaudet, asserted his client's innocence, stating, "He has never, ever harmed a child in any way." The teacher, who previously worked at Salem Academy Charter School, was released on $5,000 bail and is currently under house arrest. Gaudet emphasized Benedick's reputation as a "dedicated, and beloved, and respected teacher for many years," while also noting that none of his students are believed to be victims in this case. Essex County District Attorney Paul Tucker confirmed the ongoing investigation, which began when Benedick unknowingly communicated with an undercover Newbury police officer monitoring a teens-only chat room. A pretrial hearing is set for October 3, although Benedick is not required to attend. In light of the incident, local police are urging parents and guardians to engage in discussions with their children about safe online behavior and to report any inappropriate interactions with adults.