Manhattan Beach School Assistant Arrested on Child Pornography Allegation
Jan 26, 2022 02:59PM ● By Mb News Staff
Manhattan Beach Unified School District Superintendent John Bowes this afternoon informed parents that a Manhattan Beach school employee had been arrested on a child pornography allegation.
The full text of Bowes' message to parents and guardians is as follows:
"We would like to make you aware that we were notified this
morning by the Redondo Beach Police Department that the instructional
assistant for the elementary strings program, Kevin Bandel, was arrested
for allegedly possessing child pornography. Mr. Bandel is not the
primary instructor in our elementary strings program; as the assistant,
he provides accompaniment and support to the music teacher.
"Mr. Bandel will be placed on administrative leave. We are
fully cooperating with law enforcement during this investigation. Per
their preliminary investigation, Redondo Beach Police Department has
informed us that they do not have knowledge that the material in Mr.
Bandel’s possession is connected with any MBUSD student, nor do they
have any indication that any crime has been committed against any MBUSD
student.
"We know that this is difficult news to share. We ask that
anyone with information contact Redondo Beach Police Department
Detective Ryan Harrison at (310) 379-2477, extension 2480.
"We have counseling services available for students who need
support. Please contact your site administrator for more information.
In addition, here are tips for talking with your children about difficult topics.
"We value the relationship we have with our students,
parents, and the community. Student safety is, and always will be, our
top priority.
"Thank you for your continued trust and support."
According to news reports (not yet confirmed by MB News) bail was set at $20,000, and Bandel was released early Wednesday afternoon.
