WUSA 9 has reported that an attempted sexual battery and assault occurred on the campus of Carl Sandburg Middle School, located at 8428 Fort Hunt Rd, Alexandria, VA 22308.
On October 6, 2021, a 13-year-old was charged with abduction and attempted sexual battery while inside the middle school. According to witnesses and digital footage, the victim was told to get the suspect milk. When the victim refused to do so, they were forced down on their knees while the suspect began to take his pants off. At this point, the assault was prevented by a school administrator.
The suspect has not been admitted back into the school, and charges have been filed against him.
Attorney contributor Kevin Biniazan represents school sex assault victims and their families in civil lawsuits. Kevin sat down to discuss the legal options available to victims of sexual assault on a school campus. He also touched on who can be held liable for sexual assault on a middle school campus.
"Schools and educational institutions have a legal duty to implement preventative measures ensuring children are safe while in their care. These safety measures may include security cameras, patrolling security officers, and a reporting system. Failure to provide a sufficient safety plan can lead to the school being held responsible for the abuse that occurs on the campus."
"When an assault involves a student, the school's safety measures should be investigated. Along with the criminal investigation of the accused, it's important to investigate whether the abuse could have been prevented or if it was enabled by safety negligence. If the abuse was at the hand of another student who had a history of misconduct, the school could be liable for failing to prevent further abuse."
"If school negligence is proved to be a factor, the victim and their family may have grounds for a civil lawsuit. Victims and their families may learn more about their legal options by consulting an experienced sexual abuse victim lawyer."