Middlesex County – John Denuto, a former Sayreville teacher and prominent figure in the New Jersey wrestling scene, has been sentenced to seven years in state prison for the sexual abuse of multiple minors. The sentence, delivered by Middlesex County Superior Court Judge Thomas Abode on Thursday, also includes lifetime parole supervision, mandatory registration as a Megan’s Law sex offender, and a strict prohibition on any contact with his victims.
Denuto, 46, and his legal representation had sought a reduced sentence of five years. However, Judge Abode upheld the seven-year term negotiated in a previous plea agreement. The disgraced coach’s arrest in February 2020 followed an investigation uncovering a pattern of sexual misconduct, including criminal sexual contact with a minor and the creation and possession of child sexual abuse material.
Court documents reveal a disturbing history of abuse, with Denuto targeting a former middle school student during private coaching sessions held at his home. These assaults occurred repeatedly over several years, while the victim was between the ages of 13 and 15. The investigation also brought to light Denuto’s possession of additional explicit material involving other unidentified children, as well as instances of non-consensual intimate photography and inappropriate touching.
Denuto’s extensive involvement in the wrestling community spanned numerous schools and clubs throughout New Jersey, including Sayreville Middle School, The Peddie School, Union County College, and various recreation programs and high schools. His position as head wrestling coach at Union County College was terminated following his arrest.
This case underscores the critical need for vigilance and proactive measures to protect children in sports and educational environments. It serves as a somber reminder that individuals in positions of trust and authority must be held fully accountable for their actions when they violate that trust.
