NEW YORK (PIX11) — A former Manhattan middle school principal is accused of sexually abusing three students, including a 12-year-old girl, in a two-year span, authorities said.
Eric Cato, 37, who worked at KIPP Washington Heights Middle School, was arrested on Aug. 12 and charged with sexual abuse and endangering the welfare of a child, according to prosecutors.
Eric Cato, 37, is accused of sexually abusing multiple students at a Manhattan middle school. (Credit: NYPD)
The alleged abuse dates back to October 2024 and continued until March 2026, according to the indictment.
One of the victims was a 12-year-old girl, and the other two students were younger than 17 and 14 years old, authorities said.
Cato was subsequently let go, according to school officials.
“We take these allegations very seriously and understand how deeply alarming this news is for our school community. This individual is no longer at the school, and we remain focused on protecting student privacy and maintaining a safe and supportive environment for KIPP families and staff,” said a KIPPS NYC spokesperson.
Cato pleaded not guilty at his arraignment and was released without bail, according to court records.
His lawyer could not immediately be reached.
Authorities are continuing to investigate whether there are more victims.
“As alleged, this principal abused his position to sexually abuse middle schoolers he was entrusted to mentor and keep safe. We are continuing to investigate alongside the NYPD. We urge anyone with information to contact our Child Abuse Bureau at 212-335-4300. Our specially trained prosecutors and counselors can speak with children in a sensitive manner in a child-friendly space,” said Manhattan D.A. Alvin Bragg.
Submit tips to police by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477), visiting crimestoppers.nypdonline.org, downloading the NYPD Crime Stoppers mobile app, or texting 274637 (CRIMES) then entering TIP577. Spanish-speaking callers are asked to dial 1-888-57-PISTA (74782).
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