Legal Analysis By Attorneys
Breaking Legal News
Micah Lanford, a former educator at Boiling Springs High School located at 2251 Old Furnace Rd, Boiling Springs, SC 29316, now faces eight counts of sexual battery involving a student. This development comes after his initial arrest on four charges, signaling an escalation in the case, according to WYFF4.
During a bond hearing held Sunday, Lanford was denied release and remains in custody at the Spartanburg County Detention Center. The Spartanburg County Sheriff's Office has stated that the investigation is still ongoing and has called on anyone with information or potential victims to come forward.
The accusations first emerged last Thursday when officials began investigating reports of an inappropriate relationship between a teacher and a student within Spartanburg County School District Two. The teacher, later identified as Lanford, resigned shortly afterward.
In a statement to parents, district officials expressed heartbreak over the situation while reaffirming their commitment to student safety and transparency. The district has pledged full cooperation with law enforcement and promised support for students affected by these events.
As the case unfolds, deputies are urging members of the community to provide any information that could assist in the investigation. The Spartanburg County Sheriff's Office remains dedicated to uncovering the truth and ensuring justice is served.
When allegations of sexual abuse surface in schools, families often face a whirlwind of emotions and uncertainty about the next steps. To provide clarity, James Moore, a South Carolina attorney well-versed in handling sexual abuse cases, shares the legal pathways available to victims and their families.
Editor Darla Medina: What legal steps can families take if their child has been victimized by a teacher?
Attorney James Moore: Families have both criminal and civil routes to consider. On the criminal side, it's important to cooperate fully with law enforcement, as their investigation builds the case for prosecution. In parallel, families can pursue civil lawsuits against the individual offender and potentially the school district if negligence or a failure to act is evident.
Medina: Could you elaborate on what negligence might look like in these cases?
Moore: Negligence could involve the school failing to address prior complaints about the teacher, ignoring warning signs, or not having proper safeguards in place to protect students. If the school knew or should have known about the risk, they could be held accountable in civil court.
Medina: What advice do you have for families navigating these complex situations?
Moore: The most important thing is to prioritize the well-being of the child. Seek therapy or counseling as needed. Legally, families should document everything—communications, interactions, and any evidence of misconduct. Finally, consult an experienced attorney who can guide them through both the criminal and civil processes to ensure their rights are protected.
Victims and their families don’t have to face these challenges alone. If you or someone you know has been impacted by sexual abuse, legal support is available. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your rights and explore the options for holding those responsible accountable.
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