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ABC 7 NY reported that an after-school employee was arraigned in court on Tuesday, February 20, 2024, facing charges of sexually abusing an 8-year-old student. Miles McNeal, 25, who taught a photography class at PS 185 located at 20 W 112th St, New York, NY 10026, was arrested on February 1, 2024, sending shockwaves through the school community.
According to authorities, McNeal is accused of sexually abusing a female student and taking explicit photographs of the child's private parts. Even more disturbingly, he allegedly showed these photographs to other students, raising concerns about the potential scope of his actions.
Many of the school's parents gathered for a closed-door meeting on February 8 to address their growing worries and dissatisfaction with the school's handling of the situation. Parents expressed frustration, claiming that they were not promptly notified about the arrest of the after-school employee. As a result of the outcry, the school's principal was reassigned.
In response to the incident, the Department of Education (DOE) issued a statement condemning the alleged actions and assuring parents that student safety is their utmost priority. The DOE confirmed that both the principal and the parent coordinator were removed from their positions at PS 185. Additionally, the district superintendent has been working closely with families and the school community during this period of leadership transition.
McNeal appeared in court on Tuesday and pleaded not guilty to the charges. He currently remains in custody, and his lawyer declined to comment on the case.
The DOE emphasized that they are taking the matter seriously and are conducting both internal and external investigations. The District Attorney's office is leading the criminal investigation, while the DOE is conducting its own inquiry into the incident.
Law enforcement agencies are urging any additional victims to come forward and report their experiences. The NYPD has provided contact information for individuals who wish to provide information or seek assistance. Victims or anyone with relevant information can contact the NYPD's Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-646-610-7272, the Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477), or, for Spanish speakers, 1-888-57-PISTA (74782).
In the aftermath of a recent incident involving allegations of sexual abuse within an after-school program, individuals affected by such traumatic experiences may be seeking guidance on their legal rights. In this interview, we engage in a conversation with Laurence Banville, an experienced New York-based attorney specializing in cases of child sexual abuse. Together, we explore the available avenues for victims of abuse during after-school programs, highlighting the civil case options against responsible parties and providing valuable information on seeking support and justice.
Editor Darla Medina (DM): Mr. Banville, thank you for joining us.
Laurence Banville, Esq. (LB): Thank you for having me, Darla. It's important to go over distressing cases like these and provide guidance to those affected.
DM: Absolutely. In light of the recent incident involving alleged sexual abuse at PS 185, many parents and concerned individuals may be wondering about their legal options. Could you explain what victims of abuse during an after-school program at school, in general, can do with a civil case against liable parties?
LB: Certainly, Darla. Victims of abuse during an after-school program have the right to seek justice through civil litigation. In such cases, it's crucial for victims and their families to consult with an experienced child abuse attorney who specializes in sexual abuse cases. These attorneys can provide guidance and support throughout the legal process.
DM: What are some of the steps victims can take if they wish to pursue a civil case?
LB: It's essential for victims to prioritize their safety and well-being. They should seek immediate medical attention and report the abuse to the authorities. It's also crucial to document any evidence, such as photographs, messages, or witness testimonies that can support their case.
Once the initial steps are taken, victims should consult with a child abuse attorney who can assess the viability of their civil case. Attorneys can help victims understand their rights, gather evidence, and navigate the legal system. They can also assist in filing a lawsuit against the liable parties, such as the after-school program, the school, or any individuals involved.
DM: Are there any time limitations or deadlines that victims should be aware of when considering a civil case?
LB: Yes, Darla. It's important to note that there are statutes of limitations in place for filing civil claims. These time limits vary depending on the jurisdiction and the nature of the case. Victims should consult with an attorney as soon as possible to understand the specific deadlines that apply to their situation.
DM: Thank you, Mr. Banville, for providing valuable insights into the legal options available to victims of abuse during after-school programs. Is there anything additional you would like to share with the families of school sex abuse victims?
LB: Certainly, Darla. I want to emphasize that they should never feel alone or powerless. It's crucial to reach out for support and seek legal guidance from professionals who specialize in these cases. By taking legal action, victims not only pursue justice for themselves but also play a vital role in holding responsible parties accountable and potentially preventing future incidents.
DM: Thank you, Mr. Banville, for your time. We appreciate your commitment to helping victims and raising awareness about this important issue.
LB: Thank you once again, Darla. It's been a pleasure to speak with you and contribute to this important conversation.
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