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Two more employees of the Socorro Independent School District (SISD) have been arrested this month following allegations of sexual abuse involving two students, according to KTSM. Rodolfo Laureano, 52, a school bus driver, and David Hernandez, 36, a school security officer at Eastlake High School, are facing serious charges after separate incidents were reported.
According to court documents, Rodolpfo Laureano was operating a school bus on September 17, 2024, when he inappropriately touched a 10-year-old female student. Surveillance footage revealed that Laureano asked the child to show him she did not have gum, leading to inappropriate contact. After she returned to her seat, he made further inappropriate advances before dropping her off.
In a separate incident on September 18, 2024, Hernandez allegedly approached a 15-year-old student at the Eastlake High School softball field. During the student's lunchtime, he made inappropriate comments, touched her, and even attempted to involve her in taking a photo of the incident. He was said to have inappropriately touched himself while clothed and shared an explicit video of himself with the girl. Footage confirmed Hernandez's presence at the scene.
Both Laureano and Hernandez have been placed on administrative leave pending further investigation. They have been charged with indecency with a child and are currently in custody. The SISD has expressed its commitment to ensuring the safety of its students.
This incident raises significant concerns about the safety of students within the district. Just recently, a math teacher from Clarke Middle School was also arrested on multiple charges related to sexual abuse of minors. The SISD community is now grappling with the implications of these alarming events.
In the aftermath of alarming allegations against employees of the Socorro Independent School District, we spoke with child sex abuse attorney Anjali Nigam. With experience in handling such sensitive cases in Texas, Nigam discusses the legal rights available to students who face sexual abuse during school hours. She also highlights the steps school sex abuse victims can take to hold negligent parties accountable, emphasizing the importance of reporting incidents to protect others in the future.
Editor Darla Medina: Thank you for joining us today. Can you explain what legal rights students have if they experience sexual abuse by school employees, such as bus drivers and security officers?
Attorney Anjali Nigam: Absolutely, Darla. Victims of sexual abuse have the right to report the incident to law enforcement and school authorities. They can also pursue civil action against the perpetrators and potentially the school district if negligence is involved.
DM: What steps can victims take to hold negligent parties accountable?
AN: Victims should gather any evidence available, such as witness statements or surveillance footage, and report the incident immediately. Consulting with an attorney who specializes in these cases is vital. They can help navigate the legal process and assess whether the school or district failed to provide a safe environment.
DM: How important is it for victims to come forward?
AN: It's incredibly important. Reporting not only helps the victim seek justice but can also prevent future abuse. Schools need to be held accountable, and awareness can lead to systemic changes that protect all students.
DM: Thank you, Anjali, for your valuable perspective on this critical issue.
If you or your child has experienced sexual abuse in a school setting, know that you are not alone. Victims and their families are encouraged to reach out for help. Our team is here to provide support and guidance through this challenging time. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your rights and the options available to you. Your safety and well-being are our top priorities.
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