The current leadership in Atlantic City Hall and the Atlantic City Public Schools is embroiled in controversy, as a husband-and-wife duo continues to run the city and its education system despite serious criminal indictments.

Meet Marty and La’Quetta Small—he’s the Mayor of Atlantic City, and she serves as Superintendent of Public Schools. Both are currently under criminal indictment for child abuse. On top of that, Marty Small faces an additional indictment for alleged witness tampering.

Governor’s Call Ignored

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy publicly asked Marty Small to step down. Small refused.

Even more astonishing, La’Quetta Small remains in her position overseeing the public school system, despite facing child abuse charges. She continues to have direct contact with students, faculty, and staff—something many view as deeply inappropriate given the severity of the charges.

Unprecedented Situation

La’Quetta Small could be the only educator in U.S. history criminally charged with child abuse who has not been suspended or removed from a supervisory role. The lack of action has stunned many, raising questions about oversight and accountability.

Who Has Allowed This?

Those who have permitted La’Quetta Small to remain in her role include:

• Governor Phil Murphy
• New Jersey Commissioner of Education
• All state monitors assigned to Atlantic City
• Atlantic County Superintendent of Schools
• Atlantic City Board of Education

This situation, by all standards, defies precedent and logic.

Marty Small’s Political Gamble

To retain his position, Marty Small faces a daunting political and legal challenge:

1. Win the June 10, 2025 Democratic primary against Bob McDevitt.
2. Survive a criminal trial for child abuse and witness tampering, currently scheduled for July 14, 2025. Though delays are expected, a conviction would immediately cost him his office.
3. Win the November general election against Republican Naeem Khan and Independent Dennis Burroughs.

Small has beaten the odds before, with two previous acquittals in criminal cases. A third acquittal would bring his record to 3-0—though this time, the Atlantic County Prosecutor, Will Reynolds, appears far better prepared.

What’s Next for La’Quetta Small?

If convicted, La’Quetta Small will be immediately removed from her post as Superintendent. If acquitted, she will remain in place.

For now, both Marty and La’Quetta Small continue in their powerful roles, under clouds of serious allegations, while the city and school district wait for the outcomes that may reshape their futures.

This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.