A decades-long career in New Jersey education has come to an end for Harry Guerriere, who has lost all of his teaching certificates. State officials determined he participated in fraudulently obtaining thousands of dollars in Hurricane Sandy disaster relief funds.
Certifications Revoked
The state Commissioner of Education last month upheld a 2024 decision by the State Board of Examiners to revoke all certificates held by Guerriere, of Jersey City. The commissioner’s ruling stated Guerriere and his wife misrepresented their primary residence to qualify for funds distributed after Superstorm Sandy devastated parts of the state in 2012.
Guerriere was criminally charged in 2018 with theft by deception and related offenses. He later pleaded guilty to a downgraded disorderly persons offense and paid associated fines and penalties.
The Discrepancy
At the time of the storm, Guerriere and his wife owned a home in Jersey City and another in Brigantine, which sustained significant damage. Disaster relief programs required applicants to demonstrate the damaged property was their primary residence on the date of the storm. According to state education officials, Guerriere’s wife identified the Brigantine home as their primary residence in her application.
However, official records – including driver’s licenses, voter registrations, tax filings, and employment documents – indicated the couple resided in Jersey City. Guerriere argued during court proceedings that he was unaware of his wife’s actions and that she managed the paperwork independently. An administrative law judge rejected this claim, finding Guerriere complicit in the misrepresentation.
Evidence presented to the judge included Guerriere’s signature on income certification documents, changes to his address on official records following the storm, and a submitted address change to his employer. A $10,000 Hurricane Sandy relief check was also deposited into a joint bank account held by Guerriere and his wife.
The administrative law judge determined Guerriere’s actions constituted “conduct unbecoming a teacher” and eroded public respect for public employees. The commissioner’s decision permanently revoked Guerriere’s credentials in special education, elementary education, driver education, and speech-language services. His wife also lost her teaching credentials in a 2023 ruling.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the initial investigation into Harry Guerriere?
Guerriere was initially criminally charged in 2018 with theft by deception and related offenses connected to Hurricane Sandy relief funds.
What evidence led the judge to reject Guerriere’s claim of being unaware of his wife’s actions?
The judge cited evidence including Guerriere’s signature on income certification documents, changes to his address on official records after the storm, and the deposit of a relief check into a joint bank account.
What types of teaching certificates did Guerriere lose?
Guerriere lost certificates in special education, elementary education, driver education, and speech-language services.
As the state continues to address the aftermath of past disasters, what responsibility do individuals have to ensure the integrity of relief efforts?
