Utica Custodian Charged with Child Endangerment

Authorities say Mohamed made inappropriate advances toward 13-year-old student on school grounds

Apr. 10, 2026 at 7:08pm

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An extreme close-up of a school security badge or keycard, the details obscured by dramatic shadows and harsh lighting, conveying a sense of violation and betrayal of trust.A harsh flash photograph of a school security badge conceptually representing the violation of trust in an educational setting.Marcy Today

A 45-year-old custodian at John F. Kennedy Middle School in Utica, New York has been arrested and charged with endangering the welfare of a child, a class A misdemeanor. The investigation began in January 2026 after state police received a report from the Oneida County Child Advocacy Center involving a juvenile. Authorities say Abdiwahab A. Mohamed allegedly made inappropriate and unlawful sexual advances toward a 13-year-old female student while on school grounds.

Why it matters

This case highlights the importance of vigilance and swift action when it comes to protecting children from potential predators, even in seemingly safe school environments. The charges against Mohamed raise concerns about school safety protocols and the vetting process for employees who work closely with minors.

The details

According to the investigation, members of the Marcy Bureau of Criminal Investigation worked in coordination with the Oneida County Child Advocacy Center and the Oneida County District Attorney's Office to build the case against Mohamed. Authorities say the alleged incidents occurred on school grounds while Mohamed was employed as a custodian at John F. Kennedy Middle School.

  • The investigation began in January 2026 after state police received a report.
  • Mohamed was arrested on Thursday, April 9, 2026.

The players

Abdiwahab A. Mohamed

A 45-year-old custodian at John F. Kennedy Middle School in Utica, New York who has been charged with endangering the welfare of a child.

Oneida County Child Advocacy Center

An organization that works to protect children and coordinate investigations of alleged abuse.

Oneida County District Attorney's Office

The local prosecutor's office that is handling the case against Mohamed.

Marcy Bureau of Criminal Investigation

The state police unit that conducted the investigation into the allegations against Mohamed.

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What they’re saying

“We must remain vigilant in protecting our children, even in places that are supposed to be safe havens like our schools.”

— Oneida County District Attorney

What’s next

Mohamed is currently being held at Oneida County Jail and is awaiting arraignment on the charges.

The takeaway

This case underscores the critical need for thorough background checks, robust employee screening, and ongoing monitoring to ensure the safety of students in our schools. It also highlights the importance of swift reporting and investigation when allegations of misconduct arise.