Legal Analysis By Attorneys
Breaking Legal News
A 61-year-old maintenance manager and security guard at Mater Academy Biscayne, located at 12900 NE 17th Ave, North Miami, FL 33181, has been arrested following serious allegations involving inappropriate comments made to a 15-year-old student. Authorities have identified the suspect as Adolfo Eusebio Cotarelo, who was taken into custody on Wednesday and charged with child abuse, according to CBS News.
Investigators say the incident occurred inside the school cafeteria, where Cotarelo allegedly initiated an explicit conversation with the student. According to the arrest report, Cotarelo spoke about sexual activities and suggested the girl visit a secluded area on the school’s third floor, which lacked security cameras. Despite her attempts to divert the conversation, he allegedly continued with inappropriate questions, leaving the student distressed.
The situation has left families and students at the school deeply unsettled. “It's terrifying to think about,” one parent said, highlighting the trust parents place in school staff. Students have also expressed shock. “Everyone’s talking about it. It’s such a small school. How could this happen?” said Adrian Philip, a student who shared his thoughts with CBS News Miami.
The girl reportedly became physically ill after the encounter and expressed fear about returning to school, concerned about seeing Cotarelo again.
Cotarelo appeared in bond court on Thursday, where his bond was set at $5,000. The judge also issued a stay-away order, prohibiting contact with the victim. In the arrest form, Cotarelo denied making any sexual comments to the student.
Mater Academy Biscayne has since removed Cotarelo from his position and confirmed in a letter to parents that he will not be returning to the school.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the case, but no additional details have been released at this time. School officials have declined further comment as they cooperate with law enforcement.
When allegations of sexual misconduct by a school maintenance worker arise, families are often left grappling with questions about how to protect their children and seek accountability. To address these concerns, we sat down with Florida sexual abuse attorney Jen Lipinski to explore the legal actions available to families impacted by such cases. From criminal charges to potential civil lawsuits against schools, Lipinski outlines the steps families can take to navigate this challenging situation.
Editor Darla Medina: What legal options do families have when allegations like this arise involving school employees?
Attorney Jen Lipinski: Families can absolutely take legal action to protect their children and hold responsible parties accountable. In cases involving school employees, parents can pursue both criminal and civil avenues. Criminal charges are handled by law enforcement and prosecutors, as we're seeing here with the arrest. On the civil side, families may bring a lawsuit against the school for negligence if it’s found that the institution failed to properly screen, supervise, or respond to warnings about the employee’s behavior.
Medina: What specific factors are considered when determining negligence on the part of the school?
Lipinski: Courts will examine whether the school had policies in place to prevent this kind of behavior and whether those policies were enforced. For example, were employees properly vetted and trained? Did the school ignore red flags about the individual? If the school failed to take reasonable steps to ensure student safety, it could be held liable.
Medina: What would you say to families who feel uncertain about stepping forward?
Lipinski: I understand the hesitation, but their voice matters. Reporting the incident not only helps their child but could also prevent harm to others in the future. Consulting an attorney who specializes in these cases can also provide clarity and guidance on their rights and options.
If you or someone you love has been impacted by abuse in a school setting, you don’t have to face this alone. Legal options are available to hold wrongdoers accountable and ensure justice is served. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help guide you through the next steps with care and determination.
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