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On Wednesday, Nov. 13, the New Rochelle School Board and Schools Superintendent Laura Feijóo shocked the community when they announced that the popular coach would be "reassigned," and barred from any activity within the district or his team.
The community rallied around DiRienzo, with teachers, students, former players and parents going so far as to call for the resignation of Feijóo, who has offered few details as the investigation unfolds.
"The District understands the community is eager for resolution given that the timing of this investigation aligns with the football team’s impressive playoff run,” Feijóo said at the time. "We appreciate Coach DiRienzo’s impact on this team.
"We admire the hard work of our outstanding student-athletes and assistant coaches and celebrate their achievements and dedication. We will continue to support and cheer for the Huguenots as they continue their quest for a state championship."
Yonkers police spokesman Dean Politopoulos confirmed on Tuesday, Nov. 26 that the department currently has an open investigation. On Wednesday, Nov. 27, it was confirmed that there was alleged unlawful contact involving a student in the late 1980s.
However, due to the amount of time that has elapsed, Politopoulos said that there will be no criminal charges for DiRienzo.
“Last week the Yonkers Police initiated an investigation into allegations brought forward by a former local high school student, alleging unlawful contact between the student and a former coach/teacher," he said. "The incidents are alleged to have occurred in the late 1980s.
"Due to the nature of the allegations and the amount of time elapsed, any potential criminal charges would not be eligible for prosecution.
"The Yonkers Police Department has a responsibility to our constituents and all involved parties to investigate these allegations and afford due process and impartiality to the same; as such, no further information will be released at this time.”
New Rochelle will take on McQuaid Jesuit at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 1 at the Carrier Dome in Syracuse. It remains unclear if DiRienzo will be cleared in time to be on the sideline coaching his team.
Check back to Daily Voice for updates.
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