28-year-old woman arrested after allegedly posing as a teen student at Westchester Square Academy
A 28-year-old woman was arrested after police say she pretended to be a teenager and enrolled at Westchester Square Academy.
Staff at the school reported Kacy Claassen, 28, to the NYPD for identity theft and trespassing. She was taken into custody on Monday, April 27, without further incident, police told the Bronx Times.
According to a criminal complaint, Claassen was enrolled under the name “Shamara Rashad” and had a birthdate that said she was 16 years old, per News12.
Officials said the school’s principal discovered Claassen’s Facebook page with her photo, which had a different birthday. She then allegedly admitted her real name and age and told the principal that she lied about her identity because a friend had pressured her to do so for public assistance benefits.
According to the NYPD, no injuries were reported. The investigation is ongoing and Claassen has been charged with endangering the welfare of a child, criminal impersonation, possession of a forged instrument and criminal trespassing.
A spokesperson for New York City Schools told the Bronx Times that they view enrollment fraud as a serious crime that undermines NYC Public Schools values.
“The NYPD is actively investigating these allegations and will pursue all appropriate legal action against those responsible. We are providing all necessary and suitable support to the school community.”
Claassen has a clean record and was released from custody. She is due back in court June 1.
Reach Lesley Cosme Torres at lcosmetorres@schnepsmedia.com. For more coverage, subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram!
