Salem physical education teacher arrested and charged with sex attack

A 42-year-old Salem teacher was arrested after allegedly attempting to meet a young girl for sex, authorities said Wednesday.

Darren Benedick, a physical education and health teacher at Salem Academy Charter School, thought he was communicating with a 14-year-old girl when he “sent an obscene image” and arranged a meeting for sexual activity, Essex County prosecutors alleged.

Instead, an undercover police officer from Newbury posed in a chat room “just for teenagers,” the prosecutor said.

Benedick allegedly made contact with the undercover officer, who he thought was a young girl. He allegedly described the sexual acts he wanted to perform, posted the obscene image and arranged to meet on Wednesday. He was arrested upon arrival and charged with child enticement and distribution of material harmful to minors, the prosecutor said.

Officials said there was no evidence that students at the school were involved. Stephanie Callahan, executive director of Salem Academy Charter School, said in a statement to Boston.com that Benedick was immediately placed on leave.

“We are in contact with police and will cooperate with their ongoing investigation,” said school principal Stephanie Callahan. “Authorities stated they have not received any allegations that Salem Academy students were involved in the incident.”

Benedick pleaded not guilty in court on Wednesday and was remanded to the Essex County House of Correction.

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