Legal Analysis By Attorneys
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A Chicago Public Schools special education assistant has been charged after investigators say he groomed a 13-year-old student through social media, according to WGNTV.
Prosecutors said Mycale Ford, 41, of South Holland, was taken into custody last week following a months-long investigation that began in March. According to court documents, the case started after the victim’s father reported obscene messages allegedly sent by Ford to his daughter.
Investigators said the teen told police that the communication began on Instagram in October 2024. Ford allegedly offered the girl money in exchange for a photo, according to court records.
Authorities said Ford admitted during a police interview that he was aware of the girl’s age and knew that his comments were inappropriate. He is employed as a special education classroom assistant at Gresham Elementary School, located at 8524 S Green St, Chicago, IL 60620, in the Auburn Gresham neighborhood.
Chicago Public Schools released a statement following Ford’s arrest, emphasizing its commitment to protecting students and maintaining ethical standards among staff.
“Chicago Public Schools (CPS) holds all employees to the highest standards of integrity and professional conduct. When credible concerns about employee behavior arise, the District acts swiftly and decisively. CPS is firmly committed to maintaining safe, ethical, and supportive learning environments for every student and staff member. The District continually reviews and strengthens its safeguards, including robust ethics training, oversight procedures, and accountability measures to protect our school communities.”
When allegations of sexual abuse arise within schools, families are often left grappling with emotional, legal, and systemic challenges. In an effort to provide clarity on the legal avenues available to families impacted by such incidents, attorney Erv Nevitt, a seasoned Illinois lawyer specializing in sexual abuse cases, shares his perspective on how victims and their families can seek accountability and create change.
Editor Darla Medina: When families face situations involving alleged abuse by school staff, what legal steps can they take to seek accountability?
Attorney Erv Nevitt: Families have several options. First, they can work with law enforcement to ensure the criminal process moves forward. Beyond that, they may have grounds to pursue a civil lawsuit against the individual accused of the abuse, as well as the school district, if there’s any evidence of negligence in hiring, supervision, or reporting.
Medina: What does a civil case typically involve in these situations?
Nevitt: A civil case focuses on securing justice and compensation for the victim and their family. This could include damages for emotional distress, therapy costs, and other impacts the abuse has caused. It often also brings systemic issues to light, which can lead to changes in policy or oversight to prevent future incidents.
Medina: What role does the school district play in these cases?
Nevitt: The district has a legal and moral obligation to protect students. If there’s evidence suggesting they failed to act on red flags or didn’t implement proper safeguards, they can be held liable. These cases can help ensure schools take the necessary steps to create safer environments for children.
Medina: Is there advice you’d give to families dealing with such allegations?
Nevitt: The most important thing is to support the child and prioritize their well-being. Seek counseling or therapy for them as soon as possible. Legally, it’s important to document everything—messages, communications with the school, and any evidence of the abuse. Working with an attorney experienced in these cases can help families navigate the process and ensure their voices are heard.
Families affected by abuse deserve support, answers, and justice. Navigating the legal system can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. If you or a loved one has experienced abuse by a school staff member, contact us for a free consultation. Our team is here to listen, guide, and fight for your rights every step of the way.
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