DETROIT – Jerome Younger, 54, an assistant principal at Edward “Duke” Ellington Conservatory of Music and Art at Beckham Academy in Detroit, is behind bars after being accused of sexually assaulting a young student.
The alleged assault reportedly occurred off school grounds, at Younger’s home.
A district spokesperson confirmed that Younger has been placed on leave and is no longer allowed on school property while the district conducts an internal investigation.
Younger faces first- and second-degree criminal sexual conduct charges. If convicted, he could face up to life in prison.
His biography on the Duke Ellington School website states he has more than 28 years of experience in education and has been involved in several mentorship programs for children, including the Detroit Police Department’s Junior Police Cadet program, where he reportedly spent over 38 years teaching teens employment skills.
The Detroit Public Schools Community District said it was made aware of Younger’s arrest and confirmed he has been placed on leave pending the outcome of the investigation and any criminal proceedings.
The district added that it is unaware of any other alleged wrongdoing.
Younger was arraigned Thursday (Oct. 9) and given a 10% cash-surety bond of $250,000.
If released, Younger must wear a steel cuff tether and have no contact with the alleged victim.
Macomb County Prosecutor Peter Lucido called the allegations some of the most serious offenses under Michigan law and said his office remains committed to pursuing justice for victims of sexual violence.
Younger’s next court appearance is scheduled for Oct. 22.
“The District was recently informed that a Duke Ellington administrator was arrested for sexual assault on a minor.
The administrator has been placed on leave pending the outcome of an internal investigation and any criminal proceedings and is not permitted to be on DPSCD property.
It is our understanding that the minor is a current DSPCD student and the alleged assault occurred off of school grounds at the employee’s home.
We are unaware of any other alleged wrongdoing associated with this administrator but will ensure an investigation to ensure that this is the case."
Detroit Public Schools Community District