Former NJ Teacher Sentenced to 10 Years for Sexual Assault of Students

Julie Rizzitello pleaded guilty to sexually assaulting two high school students over several months.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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A 37-year-old former Wall Township High School teacher was sentenced to 10 years in prison after pleading guilty to engaging in sexual acts with two of her students. Julie Rizzitello met one student when he was a freshman and the other when he was a junior, and the sexual activity took place at her home, in her family's bagel shop, and in a vehicle.

Why it matters

This case highlights the serious consequences for teachers who abuse their positions of trust and authority to sexually exploit students. It also raises concerns about the need for stronger safeguards and oversight in schools to prevent such predatory behavior.

The details

According to Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond Santiago, Rizzitello initially asked the students to spend time with her alone and developed a friendly relationship, which then escalated to sexual activity over several months. The sexual acts took place at Rizzitello's home in Brick, in a vehicle at a Wall Township parking lot, and at the Belmar bagel shop owned by Rizzitello's family, where each victim was employed at her suggestion. During the investigation, Rizzitello also contacted the victims and asked them to delete evidence of the crimes from their personal devices.

  • Rizzitello was arrested in July 2024.
  • Rizzitello pleaded guilty to sexual assault in August 2024.

The players

Julie Rizzitello

A 37-year-old former Wall Township High School teacher who pleaded guilty to sexually assaulting two of her students.

Raymond Santiago

The Monmouth County Prosecutor who announced Rizzitello's sentence and details of the case.

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What they’re saying

“This case highlights the serious consequences for teachers who abuse their positions of trust and authority to sexually exploit students.”

— Raymond Santiago, Monmouth County Prosecutor (dailyvoice.com)

What’s next

As part of her sentence, Rizzitello will be subjected to parole supervision for life, required to register as a sex offender under Megan's Law, barred from contact with the victims, and ordered to permanently forfeit her teaching position.

The takeaway

This case underscores the urgent need for stronger safeguards and oversight in schools to prevent teachers from sexually exploiting students, and the severe penalties that can be imposed on those who breach this trust.