The state Education Department has closed its investigation into Vincent Butera, the former superintendent of the Manhasset School District, who was accused of harassing a teacher under his jurisdiction in a probe that divided the Nassau community.

The “law enforcement investigation,” as it was described in court documents, featured in a lawsuit between the school district and Newsday, began in late November and was closed weeks ago, without incident, Department officials said.

“Given the closure of the matter by the Office of State Review, their conclusion is consistent with the original decision of the Manhasset Board of Education 18 months ago that discipline was not warranted; the Board’s public comment in May, 2021 that their decision was “the right one;” and the Board’s Feb. 14, 2022, public statement reaffirming those sentiments,” Butera said in a statement to Blank Slate Media.

“For anyone in a leadership position, it is disconcerting to have unsubstantiated claims become a source of hurtful speculation and misinformation. While it is not known who did file the complaint here, it was not filed by either the district or superintendent.”

Butera also waived his right to privacy and has allowed the department to share its findings if it chooses to do so.

Due to the confidentiality of the department’s review processes, it is unable to provide further comments or documents regarding any review unless they result in adverse actions, officials said.

No adverse actions were taken against Butera following the probe.

The investigation’s closing marks the end of a years-long saga between Butera and Manhasset.

In September 2020, a Shelter Rock Elementary School teacher filed a complaint alleging that Butera made her feel uncomfortable after hugging her twice in school and frequently visiting her classroom to “just stand in the back and stare,” according to NBC News. Both incidents were described as “creepy.” 

Following Butera’s voluntary leave, the district hired the law office of Shaw, Perelson, May & Lambert to investigate the allegations, according to reports. Two months later, the firm found that Butera’s actions were perceived as unwelcome by the teacher and deemed them a violation of the school district’s policy, which has since been changed.

The Manhasset Board of Education said in its February separation agreement with Butera the initial 2020 investigation resulted in his remaining actively employed as superintendent.

Butera released his full statement to Blank Slate Media and Carlo Prinzo, the former longtime Manhasset Board of Education member who expressed his support for the former superintendent.

“Wonderful news. This horrible attack on Dr. Butera comes to a close, orchestrated by a few unhappy individuals to achieve their own goals,” Prinzo said. “Meanwhile, the reputation of a fine person/superintendent is attacked.”

Rosemary Johnson, Manhasset’s deputy superintendent for business and operations, defended Butera during an August 2021 Board of Education meeting, saying he was targeted by “bad actors.”

“The result of this inexplicable action with questionable timing was, in my view, that the complaint, and the nature of the investigator’s findings with respect thereto, were twisted completely out of proportion,” Johnson said at the time. “I cannot discount the deliberate actions of several bad actors, with thoughts of retribution for decisions made, and with intent to do Dr. Butera and the district harm. I believe they have succeeded in their mal intent.”

In May 2021, Manhasset Secondary School seniors staged a walkout in protest of the district’s decision not to immediately terminate Butera following the investigation, according to NBC News.

Butera, who resigned from the district on July 11, had been on paid administrative leave since May 2021. The former superintendent will receive the full remainder of his annual pay, $286,844, until his contract expires on June 30, 2023, according to the agreement.

Butera said he was “pleased” the investigation has ended and that he maintains his certification.

“I am pleased to have been informed on July 8, 2022, that the investigation previously opened by the Office of State Review has been closed without incident,” Butera said in a statement. “As a result of the closure, there will be no hearing required and I remain in good standing with no effect on my administrative certification.”

The investigation was in accordance with Part 83 of the New York Codes, Rules and Regulations.

Officials said Part 83 permits the department to conduct an investigation into allegations of “lack of good moral character” against “certified educators.”

Butera said he is glad to be cleared by the investigation and looks forward to pursuing new opportunities. 

“As difficult as the past year has been, I am pleased to have been vindicated and am grateful for the outpouring of support throughout this ordeal,” Butera said. “I am grateful to the trustees who wrote letters of support on my behalf. Now that the matter has been fully resolved, I look forward to pursuing opportunities to continue to positively impact and improve the lives of students.”