🎥 second-degree murder, police said.

Court records show Horner is scheduled to return to Nassau District Court in Mineola on Thursday morning.

According to information on her Facebook account, Castle was pursuing a Ph.D. at Stony Brook University and worked there as a research assistant.

Less than three years before her death, Castle shared a heartfelt message celebrating her sister's marriage to Horner.

"My sister, my person, my partner in chaos, is now married to one of the most wonderful people in the world," Castle wrote alongside a wedding photo. "I love you both forever!"

Horner is employed as a music teacher in the Oceanside School District. Following his arrest, the district announced he had been placed on administrative leave.

"We understand that this news is deeply disturbing," Superintendent Dr. Phyllis Harrington said in a statement.

District officials said Nassau County authorities informed them the allegations "have no connection to the school district or its students."

"This staff member has been placed on administrative leave effective immediately, pending further review," the district said. "The Oceanside School District is committed to maintaining a safe, professional, and trustworthy environment for our students, staff, and community. We stand by that commitment at all times."

Horner's attorney, Gregory Grizopoulos, acknowledged the seriousness of the allegations but urged the public not to rush to judgment.

"These are very serious and disturbing allegations, and there's a very stark contrast between the allegations and his beloved reputation that he had as a teacher, with both his students and his fellow teachers," Grizopoulos told News12 Long Island.

"His family is devastated by the loss of their family member, Victoria, as well as the allegations against their son, Joe. We'll continue to evaluate the evidence as more details are disclosed to us."

If found guilty of second-degree murder, Horner could be sentenced to 25 years to life in state prison.

Horner's attorney did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment.