An elementary school teacher from Ocean County has lost his job, and surrendered his teaching certificates, after being accused of snorting morphine on his classroom desk with children nearby.
According to the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office, Michael Palladino, 43, of Barnegat, was charged last year with possession of drug paraphernalia.
Prosecutors say Palladino apparently used a ballpoint pen case to snort the morphine while at his desk around teachers and students.
He was ultimately convicted of possession of a controlled dangerous substance.
Palladino worked at Eagleswood Elementary School.