A longtime dean at Charles O. Dewey Middle School is facing criminal charges after allegedly strangling a 13-year-old student during a confrontation over school uniform compliance, according to New York City police.
Elvin Ventura, 53, who serves as the school’s dean of students, was arrested Thursday following an altercation that unfolded in the school cafeteria during lunchtime. Police say the incident began when Ventura instructed the student to change into his uniform, a standard requirement in many New York City public schools. When the student refused, the situation escalated into a physical encounter that has now led to serious legal consequences.
According to the criminal complaint, Ventura allegedly pushed the student and then wrapped his arms around the boy’s neck, applying pressure and causing “substantial pain.” The incident reportedly happened in full view of other students and staff. One student, Poseidon Agueda, recounted what he saw.
“When I looked, I see the dean has the child into a chokehold,” Agueda told reporters. “I was pretty scared. I didn’t know what was gonna happen next.” A teacher eventually intervened and separated the two, preventing the situation from escalating further.
Poseidon’s grandfather, Miguel Agueda, was appalled. “Kids are kids. You’re not supposed to touch them, and especially not a chokehold,” he said.
The New York City Department of Education responded swiftly, confirming that Ventura has been reassigned away from any interaction with students while the case proceeds. “This employee has been reassigned away from students pending the outcome of the arrest, and if convicted, we will pursue termination,” a DOE spokesperson said.
Parents and community members expressed shock and concern over the incident. Stephanie Miranda, a parent at the school, was surprised by the allegations. “That’s such a surprise because he seems like a really nice person. I’ve never had any issues with him,” she said.
Ventura was arraigned on charges including second-degree assault and endangering the welfare of a child. He was released without bail following the hearing.
The case is drawing public attention as it raises questions about appropriate boundaries and conduct for school staff. Legal experts note that school officials, especially those in administrative roles like deans, are expected to de-escalate conflicts—not contribute to them.
The incident comes amid ongoing discussions about school discipline policies and student safety in New York City public schools. Critics argue that zero-tolerance approaches and aggressive enforcement of rules like uniform policies can create unnecessary tension between staff and students.
Advocates for restorative justice in schools point to this incident as a reason to invest in conflict resolution training and nonviolent behavior management strategies.
As the investigation continues, parents, students, and faculty at Charles O. Dewey Middle School remain on edge. Many are waiting to learn more details and hoping for transparency from both school leadership and law enforcement.
In the meantime, city education officials emphasized that student safety remains their top priority. “We take these matters very seriously,” the DOE spokesperson added. “Our focus remains on creating a safe, supportive environment for every student.”
Ventura has not publicly commented on the allegations. His next court date has not yet been announced.
