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

A former school custodian in New Jersey, Giovanni Impellizzeri, has been sentenced to eight years in state prison for disturbing acts involving food contamination. The 27-year-old from Vineland admitted to tainting food meant for students and staff with bodily fluids and cleaning products. Additionally, he recorded himself placing cooking utensils on his genitals and subsequently shared the videos online.

Impellizzeri expressed remorse for his actions before sentencing, stating he had no excuses for his behavior. The alarming incidents occurred while he was employed at the Upper Deerfield Township School District in 2023, prompting a criminal investigation.

The Cumberland County Prosecutor's Office reported that health officials were alerted to the situation following the release of the videos. However, they noted that the fluids used were unlikely to cause health issues, with no illnesses linked to the contamination reported.

In January, Impellizzeri pleaded guilty to official misconduct and an unrelated charge concerning the possession of child sexual abuse material, which authorities uncovered during their investigation into his actions.

The case highlights serious concerns about food safety and the well-being of students, underscoring the consequences of criminal behavior within educational settings.