Police arrested a juvenile counselor with the Administration for Children’s Services on Monday after he reportedly strangled or choked a teen in his care.
Authorities said Tuesday that Rafael Pasols, 47, was taken into custody and charged with strangulation and criminal obstruction of breathing and assault of a 17-year-old boy on Nov. 8.
Cops said the teen was taken at the time to Lincoln Medical and Mental Health Center for care. Neither police nor ACS were able to detail what led up to the violent confrontation at the Horizon Juvenile Justice Center in the Bronx’s Mott Haven section. ACS responded to arrest of its staff member by stating it remains committed to serve young people and keep their environment safe.
“We take allegations of violence very seriously and are investigating the circumstances surrounding this incident and will implement a disciplinary response if necessary,” the agency said in a statement. Pasols, identified as 5-feet-9-inches tall and weighs in at 250 pounds, was released on bail on Monday.
It was not immediately clear if Pasols retained legal representation.
Bronx ACS counselor arrested for strangling teen in care
File photo
