The Arlington Central School District and the Dutchess County Sheriff’s Office recently celebrated two individuals, Arlington Bus Driver Susan St. Germain and Detective Benjamin Sistarenik, who were formally recognized by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for their critical roles in the investigation and prosecution of a subject for crimes against children.
Ms. Susan St. Germain, a bus driver for the Arlington Central School District, was honored for her attentiveness and bravery. The entire investigation began when Ms. St. Germain overheard a conversation between students on her bus. Her decision to immediately bring that information forward was essential in holding the perpetrator accountable for their crimes.
"If the bus driver never spoke up and never reported it, instead of talking about 13 identified victims, we might've eventually found out about it, we'd be talking about dozens or 100 victims," said Michael Feinberg, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Norfolk FBI.
Detective Benjamin Sistarenik of the Dutchess County Sheriff’s Office was recognized for his diligent and dedicated efforts. Detective Sistarenik partnered closely with the FBI throughout the complex investigation, ensuring the offender was brought to justice.
A small ceremony was held on November 20 at the Arlington Central School District Central Administration Office to celebrate their contributions. Attendees included FBI Supervisory Senior Resident Agent Pao Mei Fisher of the New York Hudson Valley Safe Streets Task Force, DC Sheriff Kirk Imperati, Arlington Superintendent Philip Benante, and Arlington Board of Education President Mary Anne Meaden, as well as numerous other officials and supporters.
Thank you to both Detective Sistarenik and Ms. St. Germain for their commitment to protecting children and ensuring public safety.
Photo 1 at top of page L to R: Sheriff Imperati, Arlington BOE President Mrs. Mary Anne Meaden, Agent Fisher, Ms. St. Germain, and Arlington Superintendent Phil Benante, Ed.D. Photo 2 L to R: Det. Sistarenik, Sheriff Imperati, Ms. St. Germain, and Agent Fisher.
Please see the news links below, which provide more information on the investigation and prosecution.