Dr. Claudio V. Cerullo, a prominent anti-bullying advocate and founder of the Teach Anti-Bullying non-profit organization, faces a summary charge of retail theft following an incident at a Boscov’s store in Middletown, Pennsylvania. The incident reportedly occurred on March 12, 2024, when police responded to a call regarding a theft in progress.
According to court documents, Pennsylvania State Police Trooper Joseph Sivo was dispatched to the Boscov’s located at 1067 W. Baltimore Pike at approximately 10:20 a.m. Store officials reported that a white male, described as wearing blue pants, a white hat, and a Dallas Cowboys jacket, had taken multiple items and exited the store without paying. The suspect then left the scene in a blue Jeep.
Troopers conducted a check on the vehicle’s license plate and proceeded to the registered address, where they identified Cerullo. He was found wearing clothing matching the description of the individual reported by store personnel. Authorities also reviewed surveillance footage from the store, which led to the filing of a single summary charge for retail theft in the Middletown Magisterial District Court.
In the wake of the incident, Dr. Cerullo initially denied any involvement when contacted by phone, but his wife, Daniela Cerullo, later stated that the situation was a case of mistaken identity that is still under investigation. A copy of the affidavit of probable cause has not yet been released to the public.
Cerullo’s attorney, Alex Giribaldi, expressed confidence that further details will demonstrate his client’s innocence. He noted that Cerullo is accused of taking either a Phillies hat or a Steve Madden hat. “We believe that once the facts come out, it will show that Mr. Cerullo was wrongfully accused and mistakes occurred,” Giribaldi stated. He also suggested that Cerullo’s ethnicity may have played a role in the allegations against him, although the police report categorized him as a white, non-Hispanic male.
The case is expected to be heard by District Judge Walter A. Strohl, though no court date has been scheduled as of now. Dr. Cerullo, who has been recognized for his work in promoting safe school environments, was recently nominated to the National School Violence and Mental Health Task Force, adding a layer of complexity to the unfolding situation.
As this case continues to develop, many are watching closely, given Dr. Cerullo’s high profile in the anti-bullying movement and the implications of the allegations against him. The outcome may not only affect his personal reputation but also the mission of the organization he founded and the community he serves.
