Triton High School via Google Maps. Denny Shaun Dalton via the Harnett County Sheriff’s Office.
On May 24, 2023, Denny Shaun Dalton—a teacher at Triton High School in Erwin, North Carolina—was arrested and charged with dozens of sex crimes involving minors.
Our firm is actively investigating reports involving Dalton and potential civil claims related to this case.
What We Know
Dalton is accused of repeatedly engaging in sexual misconduct with underage students and children. The 95 charges against him are:
- 44 counts of sexual activity with a student
- 47 counts of indecent liberties with a student
- 4 counts of indecent liberties with a child
There are at least five known victims of Dalton, ranging from 13 to 16 years old. At least three of them were students at the high school.
According to CBS 17, the “investigation revealed multiple students reported the crimes,” which are believed to have occurred during the school day on school property.
Dalton resigned from his position immediately after school officials became aware of the allegations and confronted him.
Dalton’s Role at Triton High School
In addition to his role as a teacher, Dalton was also a swim coach and assistant soccer coach. He worked in the school’s Exceptional Children’s Department, which supports students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), students who may be especially vulnerable and rely on adults for additional support, structure, and protection. A now-removed school webpage also indicated that he was involved with the school’s robotics team.
Through his various roles, Dalton was regularly placed in a position of trust, and he allegedly used that access to target and abuse vulnerable students.
Latest Update
As of June 2025, Dalton is facing more than a dozen separate criminal cases in Harnett Superior Court, covering his dozens of felony charges. On June 25, 2025, the court issued a scheduling order confirming Dalton’s not guilty plea and outlining pretrial deadlines. The trial is tentatively scheduled for the May 2026 session of Superior Court, though the exact date remains subject to change at the discretion of the District Attorney’s office.
There is no public indication that any charges have been dropped or dismissed.
We Are Investigating
At Andreozzi + Foote, we represent survivors of sexual abuse in their pursuit of justice and accountability. We are actively investigating reports involving Denny Shaun Dalton and possible institutional failure.
If you were harmed by Dalton, or have information about abuse at Triton High School, we urge you to come forward.
Speaking up is never easy—but you’re not alone, and your voice matters. Our team is ready to listen.
Contact us today.
