Evanston, Illinois - Evanston Township High School Security Guard Charged with Sexual Assault of Student

Former Evanston Township High Employee Charged with Criminal Sexual Assault

A former employee in the security department at Evanston Township High School has been charged with criminal sexual assault in connection with an incident involving a student in November 2018, according to the police.

33-year-old Michael B. Haywood surrendered to Evanston police on Tuesday, February 12 and was charged with one felony count of criminal sexual assault by a person in a position of authority.

On January 9, other employees were made aware that Haywood had allegedly sexually assaulted a 17-year-old student and reported the allegations to law enforcement. He was fired on January 14. This incident allegedly happened on November 23 and was not on school property.

Police attempted to question Haywood several times before he turned himself in. He was scheduled for an appearance in bond court Wednesday at the Skokie Courthouse.

Looking for more information on school sexual abuse law frim and attorney commentary? Continue reading below.

Legal Recourse for Survivors of Sexual Assault by School Employees

Attorney contributor Guy D'Andrea is a former sex crimes unit prosecutor who now represents survivors of sexual violence in civil lawsuits. Here is some insight from Brian on the legal options available to school sex abuse survivors and their families:

Every school needs a plan in place for protecting their students from the threat of sexual predators. Sadly, these predators often seek out positions of trust in education and other fields that involve frequently working with children. This is why anyone applying to work a school must be subject to an extensive background check. Additionally, our schools must have preventative measures in place to reduce the risk of abuse and report all suspected abuse to the authorities immediately.

Unfortunately, many schools have inadequate measures in place for protecting their students. When allegations of abuse by an employee arise, it’s important to determine if the school’s negligence enabled the abuse to occur. For example, a school might be considered negligent if they failed to contact law enforcement about suspected abuse and the abuse continued. In cases of negligence, the victims and their families likely have a strong case for a lawsuit.

Are you or your child a survivor of sexual abuse by a school employee? Our experienced sex abuse survivors lawyers understand what you’re going through and we want to help you get the support you deserve. To learn more about your family’s legal options, get in touch with us for a free consultation.