Bay Shore Union Free School District must pay $25 million in damages in sexual abuse case against Thomas Bernagozzi

BAY SHORE, Long Island (WABC) — A Long Island school district has been ordered to pay $25 million in damages following a major school sex abuse scandal.

It stems from allegations against retired teacher Thomas Bernagozzi, 76, who is accused of sexually assaulting students for decades.

More than 50 former students now say Bernagozzi abused them more than 20 years ago.

Bernagozzi retired from teaching in 2003. From 1970 to 2000 he taught third grade.

Prosecutors say it was at that time at Gardiner Manor Elementary School and Mary Clarkson Elementary School when the sexual assaults occurred.

A jury found that the Bay Shore Union Free School District improperly ignored the allegations against him and was ordered to pay $25 million in damages to a former student who was sexually assaulted by Bernagozzi.

The district says it is looking for ways to raise money for the prize.

The former Bay Shore elementary school teacher has pleaded not guilty to sexually assaulting two former students.

———-

* More Long Island news

* Send us a news tip

* Download the abc7NY app for the latest news

* Follow us on YouTube

Submit a tip or story idea to Eyewitness News

Have a breaking news tip or story idea we should cover? Send it to Eyewitness News using the form below. If you attach a video or photo, terms of use apply.