A dance studio is supposed to be a place where students learn new moves, build confidence, and have fun. It is definitely not the place anyone expects to hear about a criminal investigation.
That is why a case out of Delaware has shocked many people.
Authorities say Emily Pryor Albino, 23, of Seaford, was arrested by Delaware State Police on Thursday over allegations that she sexually abused at least two of her underage students. The accusations have sparked concern among parents and members of the local community, as investigators continue looking into the case.
According to police, the alleged incidents involved students at the dance studio where Albino worked as an instructor.
She was charged with four counts of first-degree sexual abuse of a child by a person of trust and one count of sexual solicitation of a child using a computer, cell phone or other electronic device.
Albino is a dance instructor at X-Treme Dance Studio in Laurel, a town in the southwestern corner of Delaware. The studio offers classes to ‘all ages, from toddlers to adult fitness enthusiasts,’ according to its Facebook page.
Investigators began looking into Albino on Tuesday after receiving reports that she had sexually abused two of her students enrolled in the dance studio, according to the Delaware State Police.
Detectives have reason to believe that there are more victims and are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying those potential victims, cops said.
Over the course of the investigation, police determined that Albino allegedly exchanged sexually explicit messages with her victims.
The dance instructor was committed to the Delaware Department of Corrections on a $110,000 cash bond on Thursday.
Cases involving minors are especially disturbing because they involve people who are expected to provide guidance and support. When those expectations are questioned, entire communities feel the impact.
For now, the investigation remains ongoing, and more information could emerge as the case progresses. Until then, the focus remains on the legal proceedings and ensuring that any victims receive the support they need.
