Cypress, TX - A Cypress-Fairbanks ISD Teacher, Thomas Fox, Arrested For Sexually Abusing a Student

ISD Teacher Accused of Sexually Abusing Former Middle School Student

According to ABC 13, a Cypress-Fairbanks ISD teacher faces sexual assault charges. The teacher was formerly assigned to Arnold Middle School, located at 11111 Telge Rd, Cypress, TX 77429. 

The victim, now an adult, came to the police after seeking counseling. He alleged that 56-year-old Thomas Fox began abusing him when he was only 11 years old. Fox was not only the victim's teacher in the middle school but also a family friend and mentor. Initially, the abuse included inappropriate touching but quickly progressed into sexual contact. The report stated that the abuse continued for over 20 months. 

In 2002, Fox worked for Cypress-Fairbanks ISD at Arnold Middle School. He was recently employed at Jersey Village High School, located at 7600 Solomon St, Jersey Village, TX 77040 but has been put on administrative leave due to the allegations.  

Can I Sue For School Sexual Abuse As An Adult?

Attorney contributor Anjali Nigam represents victims of school sex abuse seeking justice in civil lawsuits. During a recent discussion, Anjali explained when a victim of school sex abuse could file a lawsuit as an adult.

"Victims sexually abused by a teacher or other school employee can often be traumatized by the abuse. It is not uncommon for a child to withhold reporting until they are adults. Each state's statute of limitations for sex abuse varies. It is important for victims to come forward as soon as they feel comfortable in order to prevent missing the deadline to file a lawsuit against their predator or any third party that might be liable, such as a school."

"Schools can be held accountable for abuse if they fail to offer protection to their students. Children have a right to feel safe while they are on a school campus, and it is the legal duty of the school district to maintain a level of safety measures. These often include requiring a background check on all employees and having surveillance cameras throughout the school campus. If a school neglects to provide a sufficient level of protection to its students, it could be deemed liable."

"Furthermore, if a teacher is accused of sexually abusing a student, the school has a duty to investigate the incident. Too often, abuse occurs due to the negligence of the school administration. Victims may have grounds to file a private civil lawsuit in negligence cases. Due to the complexity of the law, victims are encouraged to consult with an experienced school sex abuse attorney."

Sources:

ABC 13