New Jersey School Band Director Charged With Sexually Assaulting Student

A New Jersey school band director has been arrested and faces multiple felony charges for allegedly sexually assaulting a former student over a span of several years, authorities announced.

Daniel Burbank, 37, of Monroe Township, was taken into custody following an investigation by local law enforcement and the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office.

Burbank served as a music teacher and the band director at Bloomfield Middle School, as well as the assistant band director at Bloomfield High School. According to investigators, he had previously worked for several years within the Fair Lawn school district.

Details of the Charges

According to the Essex County Prosecutor, the victim came forward to speak with law enforcement on the same day Burbank was arrested.

An investigative affidavit states that the abuse began when the victim was 13 years old and a student at Bloomfield Middle School. The sexual abuse allegedly continued as the victim transitioned into and attended Bloomfield High School. Investigators allege that Burbank had sexual contact with the teenager at least 40 times over the course of the multi-year timeline.

Burbank has been officially charged with:

• Attempted aggravated sexual assault
• Sexual assault
• Sexual contact
• Criminal restraint
• Endangering the welfare of a child
• Luring

Ongoing Investigation

Burbank’s current employment status with the Bloomfield Public School District was not immediately detailed by officials following his arrest.

Authorities noted that the legal proceedings are in the initial stages and emphasized that all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office is actively investigating the timeline of the alleged abuse and is asking anyone with additional information about Burbank or the case to contact its confidential Tips Line at 1-877-TIPS-4EC (1-877-847-7432).

Holding Negligent Institutions Accountable

When schools and organizations fail to implement the necessary safeguards to protect children, they must be held legally accountable. Institutional negligence, lack of oversight, and a failure to protect students from predatory staff members can leave families devastated. 

If your child or a loved one has been a victim of institutional abuse or misconduct by someone in a position of trust, you have the right to seek justice. 

Rebenack Aronow & Mascolo, L.L.P. (RAM Law) provides compassionate, rigorous, and confidential legal guidance to help families hold responsible parties accountable. Call 732-247-3600 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. We have offices in New Brunswick, Somerville, and Manalapan, NJ.