Stratford Teacher Arrested in Vehicle Scam

James O'Neil, a former teacher at Stratford High School, was arrested for allegedly conducting an extensive online scam using school computer equipment. O'Neil is accused of altering bills of sale and other documents to illegally sell vehicles on Facebook Marketplace. The investigation began after police received an anonymous tip on November 9, 2024, leading to the execution of search warrants on O'Neil's school computer and a 2023 Jeep Wrangler. He was arrested on January 1, 2025, by U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents in New York and charged with second-degree forgery, third-degree identity theft, and illegal operation of a repair business without a license. O'Neil posted a $75,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in court on January 16. He is no longer employed by the Stratford Public Schools, according to district officials.