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NBC Philadelphia reported that a police officer from Abington Township has been arrested and charged with sexually assaulting a student at the Montgomery County high school where he served as a resource officer. Jordan Jones, 29 years old, served as a full-time officer with the Abington Township Police Department while working as a school resource officer at Abington High School located at 900 Highland Ave, Abington, PA 19001.
Jordan Jones, a resident of Horsham, Pennsylvania, was taken into custody on Tuesday and is now facing serious charges, including institutional sexual assault, endangering the welfare of children, and corruption of minors.
The incident came to light on Monday, Feb. 12, 2024, when officials at Abington High School reported to the police that a 17-year-old student had disclosed to a school counselor that she had been involved in a sexual relationship with Officer Jones since November 2023. According to investigators, the teenager revealed that she and Jones had met on multiple occasions at his residence in Horsham.
Officer Jones has been placed on administrative leave with the intention to dismiss him from his duties. The local authorities and school administration are working together to ensure a thorough investigation into the matter.
During his arraignment, bail was set at $50,000 unsecured. However, certain conditions have been imposed, including no contact with the victim or her family, as well as no unsupervised contact with minors. Furthermore, Jones is prohibited from returning to the school premises.
In response to the incident, a spokesperson for the Abington School District stated, "We are taking this matter very seriously and are cooperating fully with the investigation, which is being conducted by the Montgomery County Detective Bureau. Any students or staff with information that might be relevant to their investigation are encouraged to contact Montgomery County Detective Walt Kerr at 610-278-3036 or Abington Detective Sergeant Troy Hummel at 267-536-1111. Officer Jones is prohibited from all Abington School District property, effective immediately."
The safety and welfare of students and staff are of paramount importance, and the Abington School District is taking immediate action to provide additional support to the affected community. In the absence of a School Resource Officer, District Administration will ensure additional coverage and resources for Abington Senior High School, including the presence of counselors to assist any students or staff members who may require support during this difficult time.
Jordan Jones' preliminary hearing has been scheduled for Feb. 21. At present, court documents do not list an attorney representing him.
This distressing case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of maintaining trust and safeguarding the well-being of students within educational institutions. The authorities involved are committed to pursuing justice and providing the necessary support to those affected by this incident.
In the aftermath of the arrest of an Abington Township police officer accused of sexually assaulting a high school student, questions arise about the legal options available to victims and their families in pursuing justice. To shed light on this important matter, we sat down with Brian Kent experienced child abuse attorney specializing in school sexual abuse cases in Pennsylvania. Mr. Kent provided insights into the potential for civil cases against liable parties, including high schools, and discusses the role of civil litigation in seeking accountability and compensation for victims. Join us as we explore legal options for victims sexually abused at a high school.
Darla Medina: Thank you for joining us, Mr. Kent. Can you explain what options are available to victims and their families in the tragic event a student is sexually assaulted at a high schools?
Brian Kent, Esq.: Thank you for having me, Darla. In cases of school sexual abuse, victims and their families may have the option to pursue civil litigation against various parties, including the resource officer themselves, the school district or administration, and the high school itself. It's important to remember that criminal charges address the alleged perpetrator's accountability in the eyes of the law, while civil cases focus on seeking compensation for the victim's damages and holding other responsible parties accountable.
Darla Medina: How can a civil case help victims and their families navigate the aftermath of such traumatic incidents?
Brian Kent, Esq.: Civil cases can provide victims and their families with a platform to hold not only the perpetrator accountable but also any other individuals or institutions that may have failed in their duty to protect the victim. In cases involving high schools, for instance, the school's administration and staff may be held liable if it is determined that they were negligent in their duty to provide a safe environment for students.
Darla Medina: What type of compensation can victims and their families seek in civil cases related to sexual abuse?
Brian Kent, Esq.: Victims and their families can seek various forms of compensation in civil cases, including but not limited to medical expenses, therapy costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and punitive damages. Each case is unique, and the specific damages sought will depend on the individual circumstances and the extent of the harm suffered by the victim.
Darla Medina: Are there any time limitations or legal considerations victims and their families should be aware of when pursuing a civil case?
Brian Kent, Esq.: Yes, there are time limitations, and it's crucial for victims and their families to consult with an experienced sexual abuse attorney as soon as possible to understand their legal rights and options. In Pennsylvania, there is a statute of limitations for filing civil lawsuits related to sexual abuse cases, and it's essential to adhere to those deadlines to preserve the opportunity for seeking justice through the civil legal system.
Darla Medina: Thank you, Mr. Kent, for sharing your insights and shedding light on this important topic.
Brian Kent, Esq.: You're welcome, Darla. It's essential to raise awareness about the legal options available to victims and their families. My hope is that by discussing these matters, we can encourage survivors to come forward, seek justice, and find healing.
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