Glendale Teacher at Dream City Christian School, Nathaniel Pineda Accused of Sexual Relations with Teen Student

GLENDALE, AZ — A Glendale teacher is facing multiple felonies after he was arrested for allegedly sexually abusing one of his students. Nathaniel Pineda, a 35-year-old teacher at Dream City Christian School located at 21000 N 75th Ave, Glendale, AZ 85308, was taken into custody after an investigation by the Glendale Police Department.

Allegations of Sexual Relationship Between Teacher and Underage Student

According to court documents, the incident came to light on January 4, 2024, when the parents of a 15-year-old girl reported to the police that their daughter had been sexually assaulted by a teacher. The parents discovered inappropriate text messages on their daughter’s cell phone exchanged between her and Pineda. The victim revealed that the text messages had started in August, at the beginning of the school year, and the sexual abuse had occurred a few months prior.

Christian Teacher Displayed Manipulative Behavior

The victim disclosed that she had saved Pineda’s name in her phone as “Natalie” to avoid suspicion from her parents. Text messages between the two revealed Pineda asking the girl about sex and requesting sexual favors. Pineda allegedly became manipulative and pleaded with the victim to be his girlfriend. He even went as far as telling her to wait for him so they could eventually get married. The victim reluctantly agreed to be his girlfriend, and they dated from late September to late October.

Teacher’s Secret Meetings To Allegedly Engage in Sex Acts with Minor

During their relationship, Pineda would reportedly sneak the girl out of her home and take her to his mother’s house, where he resided, to engage in sexual acts. Pineda allegedly instructed the victim to delete all their text messages, fearing that they could be used against him in a potential legal case. He even urged her to deny any involvement if questioned by authorities.

AZ Christian Teacher’s Charges Included Four Counts of Sexual Abuse

Following the investigation, police took Pineda into custody at his mother’s residence on Thursday. He has been booked on four counts of sexual conduct with a minor, four counts of sexual abuse, and one count of luring a minor.

School’s Response to Arrest of Teacher for Child Sex Abuse Charges

Dream City Christian School issued a statement in response to Pineda’s arrest. The school became aware of the allegations two weeks ago and promptly reported the information to law enforcement. Pineda was immediately removed from the school campus. The school has been cooperating fully with the Glendale Police Department throughout the investigation.

The school emphasized that the well-being of its students is a top priority and requested that the privacy of students and their families be respected, particularly those most affected by the events.

The arrest of Nathaniel Pineda has sent shockwaves through the Glendale community, raising concerns about the safety and protection of students within educational institutions. The case highlights the importance of vigilance and immediate action in response to any reports of misconduct involving minors.

Filing Civil Cases Against Christian Schools Amid Sexual Abuse Charges

After learning of the deeply troubling allegations of sexual abuse at Dream City Christian School in Glendale, Arizona, Attorney Laurence Banville sat down with Kevin Biniazan, Esq., an experienced sexual abuse attorney based in Arizona. During this conversation, Attorney Biniazan goes over the legal options available to victims and their families who are considering pursuing a civil case against liable parties, which may include Christian schools. Uncovering the intricacies of such cases, Attorney Biniazan provides valuable insights for those seeking justice and compensation in the face of such devastating incidents.

Laurence Banville, Esq. (LB): Thank you, Mr. Biniazan, for joining us today. Given your experience in handling sexual abuse cases, what options are available to victims and their families in seeking justice through a civil case?

Kevin Biniazan, Esq. (KB): Thank you for having me. Victims of sexual abuse and their families may have grounds to file a civil lawsuit against the liable parties, such as the school. A civil case allows survivors to seek compensation for the damages they have suffered, including physical and emotional pain, medical expenses, therapy costs, and other related losses.

LB: Could you elaborate on the specific elements that need to be established in a civil case involving sexual abuse allegations against a school?

KB: Certainly. In a civil case, the victim and their legal team need to demonstrate that the school had a duty of care towards the student and that this duty was breached. This can include showing that the school was aware or should have been aware of the teacher’s inappropriate behavior and failed to take appropriate action to prevent it. Additionally, it’s crucial to establish a direct link between the school’s negligence and the harm suffered by the victim.

LB: In cases involving a Christian school, are there any unique aspects that should be taken into consideration?

KB: Yes. When pursuing a civil case against a Christian school, it’s important to consider any specific contractual obligations or duty of care outlined in the school’s policies or codes of conduct. Additionally, the school’s response to the allegations, including any attempts to cover up or downplay the abuse, can also be significant factors in the case.

LB: For families considering a civil case, what advice would you give them to ensure the strongest possible legal representation and outcome?

KB: First and foremost, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced attorney who specializes in sexual abuse cases. They can guide the family through the legal process, provide support, and help build a strong case. Additionally, preserving any evidence, such as text messages, emails, or witness testimonies, can be invaluable. Lastly, it’s essential for families to prioritize the well-being and healing of the survivor throughout the legal journey.

LB: Thank you, Mr. Biniazan, for sharing your insights and expertise on this important matter. Your guidance will undoubtedly be valuable to those affected by such traumatic events.

KB: Thank you. It’s crucial for survivors and their families to know that they have legal options and support available during these challenging times. Seeking justice and holding accountable those responsible for the abuse can be an important step towards healing and recovery.

Seeking Justice for School Sex Abuse Starts Here: Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation

If you or your loved ones have been affected by sexual abuse in a Christian school setting or any other context, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for a free consultation. Attorney Kevin Biniazan and our dedicated legal team are here to provide compassionate support and guide you through the legal process. We understand the complexities of these cases and are committed to fighting for justice on your behalf. Together, we can work towards holding responsible parties accountable and seeking the compensation you deserve. Take the first step towards healing and empowerment by contacting us today for a confidential and no-obligation consultation.