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Patch has reported that a former teacher has been charged with sexually abusing four students at a Long Branch elementary school located in Long Branch, NJ 07740.
The first victim came forward over a year ago alleging that he had shown the 10-year-old pornography in a school closet before sexually assaulting her. She reported to the authorities that she was assaulted on many occasions. This led to the arrest of 53-year-old Gustavo Barrientos on February 14, 2021. After his arrest, three additional victims came forward with allegations of sexual assault. The abuse was said to have occurred at one of the elementary schools within the Long Branch School District between 2017 and 2019. Some of the abuse took place on the campus, while other incidents occurred during field trips. However, Barrientos also worked at the Red Bank Charter School located at 58 Oakland St, Red Bank, NJ 07701.
On Tuesday, February 8, 2022, Barrientos was formally indicted on one count of first-degree aggravated sexual assault, three counts of second-degree sex assault, and four counts of second-degree child endangerment.
Attorney contributor Brian Kent has years of experience as a school sexual abuse attorney. Over the years, he has represented numerous victims and their families. Brian recently revealed his thoughts on victims' legal options, including their right to file a lawsuit when sexually abused by an elementary school teacher.
"Parents send their children to elementary school under the impression that the school will ensure their wellbeing and safety. By law, schools and other educational institutes have a duty to maintain their environment is free from preventable dangers that include sexual abuse. To fulfill this commitment, a school must conduct background checks on all school employees, including teachers. Unfortunately, we have seen numerous sexual abuse cases regarding teachers and students across the globe. Too often, sexual predators gain positions of power and trust over students in order to exploit them sexually. Many additional measures can be implemented, such as easy reporting systems, monitoring cameras, and patrolling resource officers. If a school neglects its security, it can be held liable."
"Elementary schools could be considered liable as a result of negligence if the crime was foreseeable. When previous misconduct complaints go unreported or investigated, crimes committed can be deemed foreseeable. Victims and their families are urged to consider securing the services of an experienced school sexual abuse attorney to understand more about their legal options. In negligence cases, the victim would have grounds for a civil lawsuit against the school."
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