Benicia teacher arrested on suspicion of inappropriate relationship with a minor

The 56-year-old man, Kurt Michael Sindel II was arrested for harmful matter sent with intent of sex with a minor, according to the BPD. Sindel taught math at Benicia Middle School but has been placed on administrative leave by the district, while the case is investigated.

A Benicia middle school teacher has been arrested on allegations of an inappropriate relationship with a minor, police said.

Kurt “Mike” Sindel II, 56, was arrested for sending harmful content with intent of sex with a minor, according to the Benicia Police Department. Sindel, a math teacher at Benicia Middle School, has been placed on administrative leave by the Benicia school district, while the case is investigated.

Benicia police say that due to the nature of the arrest and to protect the victim and their family’s privacy, it will not release more information.

“The safety of our youth is of the highest priority,” Benicia Police Chief Mike Greene said in a news release. “I’m glad we are able to make this arrest and appreciate the cooperation and support from the school district.”

Benicia Unified School District Superintendent Damon Wright sent out a letter to the parents and guardians of students on Friday.

“The Benicia Unified School District was informed earlier this week of alleged sexually inappropriate communications that appear to have occurred between an employee and a student,” Wright said in the statement. “We want you to know that we immediately notified law enforcement officials and placed the employee, a teacher at Benicia Middle School, on administrative leave while law enforcement conducted its investigation. Today, the Benicia Police Department apprehended the employee and has taken the employee into custody on charges related to sexually inappropriate communication with a minor.

“We realize this information is unsettling and shocking, and we want to assure you of our unwavering commitment to student safety and well-being,” Wright continues in the statement. “The investigation is ongoing, and the District remains committed to the process. We understand that students, staff, and families will have questions, and we will update you within the parameters of the law. We have resources at our school sites to support our students, staff, and families. If you or your family need support, please contact your site principal.”