Winston Nguyen, a former "Jeopardy!" contestant and teacher, was recently arrested at St. Ann's School in Brooklyn.
The New York Post reported that the arrest was part of an ongoing investigation into the improper dissemination of sexual images on social media.
Nguyen, who taught math at St. Ann’s School, found himself in legal trouble last Thursday when he was apprehended before his students. His arrest ties back to allegations regarding the distribution of explicit images via social media channels. While Nguyen has been released from custody since Saturday, he has yet to face formal charges as the investigation continues under the watch of the Brooklyn District Attorney's Office.
The former quiz show champion has a complicated history. He previously served time at Rikers Island for stealing $300,000 from an elderly couple. Following his incarceration, Nguyen participated in a radio show to discuss prison conditions, which led him back into the public eye through a subsequent stint on "Jeopardy!", where he won two episodes.
Upon his release from prison, Nguyen began a new chapter by taking up a teaching position at St. Ann’s School in 2020. However, his past would soon catch up with him, leading to the current investigation that started in January 2024 and culminated in his recent arrest.
The school responded swiftly to the incident by placing Nguyen on leave immediately following his arrest. This abrupt action underscores the school’s commitment to maintaining a safe and trustworthy learning environment. The Head of School, Kenyatte Reid, expressed deep concern about the incident, emphasizing its disruptive impact on the school's reputable atmosphere.
St. Ann’s has been forthright with parents about the situation. The school's spokesperson underscored that an earlier background check on Nguyen had been thorough, noting that his non-violent criminal past did not automatically disqualify him from employment at the educational institution.
Kenyatte Reid highlighted the district's dedication to its faculty and students: "This incident is very disturbing to all of us. We pride ourselves on our amazing faculty and a learning environment rooted in trust," Reid stated, acknowledging the tension the incident has caused within the community.
Nguyen’s lawyer, Frank Rothman, has made it clear that they are awaiting further decisions from the DA's office. "We are expecting some movement shortly,” he said, indicating ongoing legal discussions that could affect Nguyen's outcome.
As the investigation progresses, Nguyen is barred from making contact with school members or visiting the premises, a directive reinforced by the school's administration to prevent further complications.
Frank Rothman, in detailed remarks about the situation, explained: "We are awaiting a decision from the Brooklyn DA’s office regarding charges against Mr. Nguyen."
Looking ahead, the Brooklyn District Attorney's final decisions will significantly dictate Nguyen’s future, both legally and professionally. Given his notoriety from "Jeopardy!" and his prior convictions, the case has garnered considerable public and media attention, complicating the school's efforts to manage the situation discreetly.
Winston Nguyen's case presents a complex blend of past controversies and current allegations that have led to his removal from an educational setting. The outcome of this investigation will likely resonate through legal, professional, and community spheres as all parties involved await further developments from the authorities. As Nguyen faces these allegations, the scrutiny of his past and present actions remain high while the school continues to prioritize the safety and well-being of its students.
