Legal Analysis By Attorneys
Breaking Legal News
Fox 5 reported that two former employees of the City of Calhoun School District, just north of Atlanta, GA, have been indicted on charges of sexual contact with students. The allegations have sent shockwaves through the community, raising concerns about the safety and well-being of the affected students.
According to the indictment filed in Gordon County, Railey Greeson and Brooklyn Shuler are accused of engaging in sexual acts with multiple male students during their time working for the school district. The charges stem from incidents that allegedly occurred between October 29, 2021, and January 3, 2022.
The indictment states that Greeson had sexual relations with two male students, while Shuler had sexual contact with one male student. The ages of the students involved have not been disclosed, but the indictment notes that the women "reasonably should have known" the students were enrolled in the district, constituting a violation of Georgia Code 16-6-5.1(b).
The indictment does not specify which schools within the City of Calhoun School District employed the two women, leaving many questions unanswered. However, the allegations have undoubtedly shaken the community and raised concerns about the school district's policies and procedures for ensuring the safety and protection of its students.
In the wake of the shocking allegations against two former Georgia school district employees, Railey Greeson and Brooklyn Shuler, who have been indicted on charges of sexual contact with male students, many in the community are seeking answers and justice. To better understand the legal rights and options available to the victims and their families, we spoke with experienced Georgia school sexual abuse lawyer, John Bey.
Editor Darla Medina: As a lawyer who has handled cases of sexual abuse in schools, what options do the victims and their families have in this situation?
Sexual Abuse Lawyer John Bey: The victims and their families have several legal avenues they can pursue. First and foremost, they have the right to file a civil lawsuit against the school district, alleging negligence in their duty to protect the students from this kind of abuse. The school district can be held accountable for failing to implement proper safeguards and training to prevent such incidents.
Medina: And what about criminal charges? Can the victims and their families also seek justice through the criminal justice system?
Bey: Absolutely. The criminal charges filed against predator teachers are a critical first step. The victims and their families may also have the option to participate in the criminal proceedings, either as witnesses or by seeking restitution. This can help them feel heard and ensure that the perpetrators face the full consequences of their actions.
Medina: You mentioned that the school district can be held accountable. How exactly can the victims and their families go about that?
Bey: Civil lawsuits will seek to prove that the school district was negligent in its duty to protect the students. This could involve demonstrating that the district failed to conduct proper background checks, lacked adequate policies and procedures for reporting and investigating allegations of misconduct, or did not provide proper training for staff on recognizing and responding to signs of abuse.
Medina: And what kind of damages or compensation could the victims and their families seek?
Bey: The victims and their families may be entitled to a range of damages, including compensation for physical and emotional harm, as well as any costs associated with counseling, medical treatment, or other support services needed to help the victims heal and recover. In cases of severe or egregious misconduct, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish the school district and deter similar behavior in the future.
Medina: Thank you, Mr. Bey, for providing this valuable insight. It's clear that the victims and their families have options to seek justice and accountability, both through the criminal justice system and the civil courts. This information will be crucial for the community as they navigate this difficult situation.
Bey: You're most welcome, Darla. These types of cases are never easy, but it's important that the victims and their families know their rights and have access to the support and resources they need to get the justice they deserve. I encourage anyone affected by this situation to reach out to an experienced school sexual abuse lawyer who can help guide them through the legal process.
If you or a loved one have been sexually abused by a teacher or school employee, it is crucial that you understand your rights and options for seeking justice. The victims and their families may be entitled to compensation for the harm they have endured, as well as the ability to hold the school district accountable for any negligence in protecting the students.
Our team of experienced school sexual abuse lawyers is here to provide the guidance and support you need during this difficult time. We offer free consultations to discuss the specifics of your case and help you navigate the legal process. Don't hesitate to reach out - we're committed to fighting for your rights and ensuring you receive the justice and healing you deserve.
info@legalherald.com