Former School District Employee Faces Molestation Charges

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Norman Riemer, a former 'science specialist' with the Palm Beach County School District, is facing multiple counts of child molestation. Prosecutors are seeking up to life imprisonment and have filed a strongly worded response opposing a defense motion to dismiss the case. Riemer's attorneys argue the alleged sexual contact was accidental, but prosecutors claim the victims' stories are consistent with inappropriate behavior.

Why it matters

This case highlights the serious nature of child molestation allegations and the challenges prosecutors face in securing convictions, even with evidence they believe is compelling. It also raises questions about the vetting and oversight of school district employees who work closely with children.

The details

Norman Riemer, the husband of former Whispering Pines Elementary School Principal Barbara Riemer, was arrested last year on multiple counts of molesting children. The alleged incidents occurred at the Lake Worth home he shares with his wife. Prosecutors have filed an extremely graphic response opposing a defense motion to dismiss the case, arguing the alleged sexual contact was not accidental as claimed by Riemer's attorneys.

• Riemer was arrested last year on the molestation charges.
• Barbara Riemer left her position as principal at the end of the 2024-25 school year, just weeks after her husband's arrest.
• Norman Riemer was fired from his position as a 'science specialist' upon his arrest.

What’s next

A hearing on the defense motion to dismiss the case against Norman Riemer has been rescheduled for next month.