Milford High Guidance Director Fired

Peter Bruce, the Milford High School director of guidance, has been fired.

was let go following an investigation by the Milford Public Schools administration into the circumstances of his recent arrest on assault charges.

Framingham Police arrested Bruce on July 6 on three counts of assault with a dangerous weapon, a car, after he was accused by three children, ages 10, 11 and 12, of chasing them through a parking garage with his vehicle. The kids were on bikes. One was injured, according to police, after he fell while trying to get away from the vehicle. In an arraignment hearing, Bruce pleaded not guilty. He told police he did not chase the children.

Patrick Holland, the Milford School Committee chairman, confirmed his dismissal Saturday, and said it was an unfortunate situation.

"It seems like this was out of character behavior on the part of Mr. Bruce," Holland said. "It's an unfortunate situation, but I think it was the right decision."

Bruce, 41, served in a management position and was not represented by a union. His dismissal was handled by Assistant Superintendent Kathleen Perry and Superintendent Robert Tremblay, according to Holland. Neither could be reached for comment Friday by Milford Patch.

The administration consulted with Town Counsel Gerald Moody before firing Bruce, Holland said.

"We have to be so careful when we are dealing with people who are in contact with children," Holland said. "We just can't afford to take any chances."