A former employee of Daniel Hand High School has been arrested on charges related to allegedly inappropriate electronic communications with students. Shalena Hastings, 37, was taken into custody on March 28 following an investigation by Madison police and school officials.
Hastings faces multiple charges, including use of a computer to entice a minor to engage in sexual activity, misrepresentation of age, risk of injury/impairing morals of children, and criminal impersonation. She was initially held on a $150,000 bond but was later released after posting a $5,000 bond.
Superintendent Craig Cooke stated that Hastings was placed on leave prior to her arrest and is no longer employed by the school district. Ensuring student safety is the district’s top priority, Cooke emphasized, adding that any threats to this safety are taken seriously and addressed promptly.
Madison Police Capt. Jeremy Yorke underscored the department’s commitment to investigating allegations involving children thoroughly. “The safety and security of our students is our highest priority,” Yorke said.
The Department of Children and Families has been informed of the incident, and the school district has contacted families directly affected by the allegations. Support is being offered to all students as needed.
Hastings is scheduled to appear in New Haven Superior Court on April 9. The investigation remains ongoing, with police urging anyone with additional information to contact them at 203-245-6500.
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