Smithtown driving instructor arrested for exposing teens to pornography

Suffolk County Police arrested Mitchell Lerner, 75, of Melville, on January 11 after investigators say he showed pornographic videos and images on a phone to three 16-year-old males during a driving lesson on December 22 in Smithtown. Lerner, who worked for Defensive Driving School in Central Islip, was charged with three counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child and issued a desk appearance ticket. He is scheduled to appear in First District Court in Central Islip.

The arrest raises immediate concerns for families who rely on one-on-one behind-the-wheel instruction to prepare teenagers for safe driving. Parents and guardians in Smithtown and across Suffolk County are likely to ask how instructors are screened, what protections exist for minors in private lessons, and where to turn if a young person needs support after a distressing encounter.

Police are asking anyone with additional information or who believes they may be a victim to contact the Third Precinct Investigative Unit at 631-854-8326. Reporting to law enforcement helps investigators identify other potential victims and strengthens community safety.

Beyond the criminal case, the episode has public health implications. Exposure to explicit material by minors can be traumatic and disruptive to adolescent development. Young people may experience anxiety, shame, or changes in behavior that can affect school performance, social relationships, and mental health. Parents, school counselors, and primary care providers play a key role in recognizing signs of distress and connecting teens to trauma-informed mental health care.

This incident also highlights policy gaps around oversight of commercial driving schools and independent instructors. Municipal and county officials may need to review background check requirements, complaint procedures, and whether clearer standards or licensing are needed for those who work alone with minors. Community trust depends on transparent hiring practices and accessible avenues for reporting misconduct.

For now, parents should talk directly with their teens about the incident in age-appropriate ways, check with any driving school about instructor credentials and supervision policies, and consider attending an initial lesson or arranging rides with a family member when feasible. If a teen shows signs of distress, reach out to a school counselor or medical provider for guidance about counseling and next steps.

The takeaway? Keep conversations open, confirm who’s behind the wheel with your child, and report anything suspicious. Our two cents? Trust your instincts, ask the hard questions of service providers, and use the police tip line at 631-854-8326 if you have information that can help other families stay safe.