Crewe, VA - Mother Accuses District of Failing to Address Sexual Assault Allegations at Nottoway Middle School

Middle School Student Sexually Assaulted By Peer

WRIC has reported that a student was sexually assaulted by another student at Nottoway Middle School located at 5279 Old Nottoway Rd, Crewe, VA 23930. 

A Nottoway County Public Schools Board meeting addressed the sexual assault charges made months ago to both the school district and the police. The sexual assault allegations state a middle school student was grabbed from behind, held against his will, and penetrated with a broomstick by another student. 

Despite an investigation made by the district in collaboration with the Nottoway County Sheriff’s Office, the perpetrator continued to be present at the school. The mother claimed the victim had been bullied since the incident was reported. The mother, along with John Roark, a member of the Nottoway County Board of Supervisors, said the district has failed to take necessary disciplinary actions to provide safety to the victim and other students. The school board refuted, saying they followed the School Board policy process. 

Can I Sue For Sexual Assault at School?

Attorney contributor Kevin Biniazan represents sex abuse victims and their families in civil lawsuits. Kevin kindly offered to share some thoughts on the legal rights of students sexually assaulted on a middle school campus, including when they can file a lawsuit against the school or school district.

"There is a crisis plaguing our nation's schools. Too often, we see reports of teachers and other school employees sexually abusing students. However, lately, there has been an increasing rate of students assaulting other students on campus. School officials have a legal duty to do everything in their power to prevent their students from becoming victims of assault by teachers or other students. A basic safety plan might include security cameras, patrolling resource officers, and security sweeps. When a school fails to implement a level of security measures, it puts students at risk." 

"When a student is charged with sexually abusing another student, it's critical to investigate the safety of the school. Some sexual assault cases occur due to the safety negligence of the school. A procedure should follow when an incident is reported, including an investigation. The district has a responsibility to prevent further abuse by the perpetrator. Failure to respond to reports of previous allegations of sexual misconduct involving can be deemed negligence. If negligence is a factor, the victim and their family might have grounds to file a civil lawsuit against the school or the school district. Victims and their families are urged to consult with an experienced school sexual assault attorney to explore their legal options further."

Sources:

WRIC