Legal Analysis By Attorneys
Breaking Legal News
A 35-year-old employee of McKinney Independent School District has been taken into custody on allegations of sexually assaulting a first-year high school student, according to KERA News. Lindsey Post, currently serving as an athletic trainer, was arrested and is now held at the Collin County jail, facing charges of sexual assault of a child and improper relations between an educator and student.
Following the allegations, McKinney ISD placed Post on administrative leave as the district initiates an investigation into the matter. Post has been an athletic trainer at various schools within the district, including McKinney North High School, Cockrill Middle School, and Scott Johnson Middle School.
Civil attorney Paul Herz, representing the alleged victim, is examining potential liability against the district. A newly enacted state law holds school districts accountable if they are proven to be negligent in hiring or supervising employees involved in sexual misconduct. Herz emphasized the necessity for McKinney ISD to bolster its policies to prevent future incidents, citing the importance of structured supervision to ensure student safety.
"None of this would have happened if there was two-deep leadership and better supervision of where the children were at all times," Herz remarked.
In response to the situation, McKinney ISD issued a statement confirming the incident had been reported to both the Texas Education Agency and local authorities. The district reaffirmed its commitment to the safety and well-being of its students, underscoring that this remains its highest priority.
Herz's remarks come on the heels of another significant case involving Celina ISD, where allegations surfaced concerning former football coach Caleb Elliott. This has led to a broader conversation about the prevalence of abuse in educational settings, with Herz noting an increased willingness among victims to come forward.
"It’s unfortunate, but there is no place where school abuse can't happen or won't happen," he stated, highlighting the ongoing challenges in ensuring safe environments for students across districts.
In the aftermath of alarming incidents involving school employees and sexual misconduct, families often face overwhelming challenges. Navigating the legal landscape can be daunting for those affected. In this interview, we speak with Anjali Nigam, an experienced Texas sexual abuse lawyer, to explore the legal avenues available to families of victims and the steps they can take to seek support and accountability.
Editor Darla Medina: In light of recent events at McKinney ISD, what legal options do victims of sexual abuse by school employees have?
Attorney Anjali Nigam: Victims can explore various avenues, including filing a civil lawsuit against the school district for negligence. Recent changes in state law have made it clear that districts can be held accountable if they fail to properly supervise employees.
Medina: What steps should victims take if they consider legal action?
Nigam: The first step is to report the abuse to law enforcement, which can initiate a criminal investigation. Following that, victims should consult with a qualified attorney who specializes in sexual abuse cases. Gathering evidence, including any documentation or witness statements, is also crucial.
Medina: Are there time limits on filing claims?
Nigam: Yes, there are statutes of limitations that vary by case type. It's important for victims to act promptly and seek legal counsel to understand their rights and options.
If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual abuse, remember that support is available. Our team is here to guide you through the legal process and help you understand your options. Don’t hesitate to reach out for a free consultation. Taking this step might be the beginning of a journey towards healing and justice. Contact us today.
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