Police say a Norwalk middle school substitute teacher was arrested on Friday, accused of sending “inappropriate messages” to students.

Officers say 64-year-old Richard Lovallo, of Stamford, was charged with risk of injury, impairing morals of a minor and harmful communication with a minor.

According to police, the investigation began in mid-September after police received a complaint.

“Detective Kougioumtzidis of the Special Victims Unit conducted an extensive investigation, which included numerous interviews, digital forensic examinations, and the execution of search warrants, all identifying Richard Lovallo as the suspect,” the arrest release states.

News 12 reached out to Norwalk Public Schools for comment. It released the following statement:

“Richard Lovallo was an employee of ESS as a long-term substitute.  The arrest stemmed from an incident that occurred during the summer of 2024 and was reported to Roton Middle School administration in Fall 2024. As per Norwalk Public Schools protocol, the Norwalk Police Department and the Department of Children and Families were notified as soon as the incident was reported. Lovallo was removed from working in Norwalk Public Schools in any capacity pending the findings of the investigation."

Lovallo is being held on $150,000 bond and will be in court on Feb. 7.

Norwalk police ask anyone with additional information to contact them directly, or through their anonymous tip line.