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In a shocking case that has rocked the community, former Evergreen Elementary teacher Jordan Henderson has been charged with 12 counts of child molestation, according to King5. The allegations involve four young girls, all students at the school located at 1632 Key Peninsula Hwy SW, Home, WA 98349, and have prompted a lawsuit against the Peninsula School District for failing to protect its students.
The lawsuit claims that Henderson's alleged misconduct took place within the confines of his classroom during school hours, with the first report surfacing in February 2023. An 11-year-old girl reported that the abuse occurred between 2022 and 2024, leading to an increase in charges against Henderson after additional survivors came forward.
According to the legal filings, the girls have endured severe emotional distress, mental anguish, and a loss of educational opportunities as a direct result of the district's alleged negligence. Hastings highlighted the lasting psychological harms that sexual abuse inflicts on victims, emphasizing the need for accountability.
A spokesperson for the Peninsula School District has refrained from commenting on the ongoing litigation, leaving many questions unanswered. The lawsuit also points out that Henderson's mother continued to work at the school after the allegations surfaced, raising concerns about the district's response to potential risks for the students.
Currently, Henderson is under electronic home monitoring after posting a $750,000 bond. His trial is scheduled for this December, as the community grapples with the fallout from these troubling allegations and seeks assurance that such incidents will not occur again. Hastings insists on the importance of restoring trust among parents and ensuring the safety of children within the school environment.
In the aftermath of alarming allegations against educators, victims of school sexual abuse often face daunting challenges as they seek justice and compensation. To navigate this complex landscape, we spoke with experienced Washington sexual abuse attorney Mike Pfau. He shares valuable insights on the legal rights available to victims and how they can hold negligent parties accountable for their actions.
Editor Darla Medina: Thank you for joining us, Mike. Can you explain the legal rights available to victims who have been sexually abused by a teacher?
Attorney Mike Pfau: Absolutely, Darla. Victims of sexual abuse have several legal options. They can pursue civil lawsuits against the perpetrator and potentially against the school district if negligence can be demonstrated. This can include seeking damages for emotional distress, medical expenses, and other losses.
Medina: What constitutes negligence in cases like this?
Pfau: Negligence occurs when a school or district fails to take reasonable steps to protect students. If they knew or should have known about the risk posed by a teacher and did nothing, they can be held accountable. This includes failing to investigate allegations properly or ignoring warning signs.
Medina: What steps should victims or their families take if they suspect abuse?
Pfau: The first step is to report the abuse to the authorities. They should also seek legal advice as soon as possible. An experienced attorney can help navigate the complexities of both criminal and civil proceedings, ensuring that victims understand their rights and options.
Medina: How can these legal actions help the victims?
Pfau: Legal actions can provide victims with a sense of empowerment and validation. They can also result in financial compensation that helps cover therapy and other related costs. Moreover, holding negligent parties accountable can lead to systemic changes that protect other students in the future.
Medina: Thank you, Mike, for sharing your insights on this important topic. It's vital for families to know their rights and the options available to them.
If you or a loved one has experienced sexual abuse in a school setting, remember that you are not alone. There are legal avenues available to seek justice and compensation. We encourage victims and their families to contact us for a free consultation. Our dedicated team is here to listen, provide guidance, and help you take the first steps towards holding those responsible accountable. Your voice matters—let us support you on this journey.
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