New Jersey school custodian gets jail term for contaminating food with bodily fluids, cleaner

BRIDGETON, N.J. (AP) -- Giovanni Impellizzeri, a former custodian at a New Jersey school, was sentenced to eight years in state prison for contaminating food with bodily fluids and cleaning products intended for children and staff. The 27-year-old from Vineland expressed remorse for his actions, acknowledging there were no excuses for his behavior.

Impellizzeri's misconduct came to light while he was employed by the Upper Deerfield Township School District in 2023. Authorities uncovered videos he created, depicting himself tainting food and handling cooking utensils inappropriately. He also shared these disturbing videos online, which led to a serious investigation.

Health officials noted that while the fluids used in the contamination were unlikely to cause harm, they took the allegations seriously. Fortunately, no illnesses connected to Impellizzeri's actions have been reported, assuaging concerns about immediate health risks to the school community.

In addition to the official misconduct charge related to the food tampering, Impellizzeri pleaded guilty to possessing child sexual abuse material, which was uncovered during the investigation into the videos. This additional charge further compounded the gravity of his actions.

The sentencing underscores the serious consequences of workplace misconduct, particularly in settings that involve children. Impellizzeri's case serves as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding children and maintaining safe environments in schools.