12-2-2011 Connecticut:In a shocking twist to the case, the investigation into the suicide of a music teacher at Eastern Middle School has led to the discovery of child pornography in his home.
Chief of Police James Heavey issued a brief statement Wednesday evening stating that a detective investigating the Nov. 9 suicide of Steven Allen, 57, discovered the material in a storage bin. The material was described as printed photographs from a computer that were “sexually explicit in nature” and that “many appeared to be child pornography.” An investigation into the photos has been launched and the FBI has been contacted to provide technical assistance. The investigation is expected to take several weeks to complete.
Chief Heavey stressed that it does not appear that local children are in any of the photographs or that Mr. Allen produced the material himself. The source of the material appears to be from the Internet and Chief Heavey noted that the sites that create this content are often located in foreign countries.
“It is the intention of the Greenwich Police Department to determine Mr. Allen’s level of involvement in this activity, identify and assist all possible victims and confirm that none of the victims are local residents,” Chief Heavey said.
No further information about the case is being released at this time.
Mr. Allen died of a self inflicted gunshot wound and his body was discovered in his Cos Cob apartment on Nov. 9 after colleagues became concerned when he did not come to work. He was a music teacher in the district for 11 years and had been in education for more than 30. Police have said that Mr. Allen’s declining health could have been a factor in his suicide.
At the time of his death he was both a music teacher and orchestra director for Eastern Middle School and had been credited for building the school’s thriving program. The news of his death was met by warm remembrances of a friend and teacher so this new development has left many in the community shocked.
Guidance counselors will be on hand at both Eastern and Greenwich High School to meet with any current or former students of Mr. Allen should they have an concerns or questions. Staff and families will also be able to meet with the counselors if needed.
On Wednesday, Interim Superintendent of Schools Roger Lulow released a statement saying, “We are both surprised and distressed at this news. We are surprised because there had been no indication or suspicion that Mr. Allen was involved in any activity of this nature, nor have there been any complaints or accusations regarding his behavior. We are distressed because we do not condone or tolerate this behavior in anyone, much less a member of our staff. A review of Mr. Allen’s personnel file and the background check, including fingerprinting, conducted at the time of his hire reveal no reports, accusations or suspicions of inappropriate behavior nor any criminal record.”
Dr. Lulow added that the district was “relieved” that the police have not found any evidence that any of the victims were local. The district said it is cooperating with the police investigation and urged anyone with concerns or information to contact the police department. ..Source.. by Ken Borsuk, Staff Reporter
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