Orrtanna, PA - Former Franklin Township Elementary School Teacher Charged with Sexual Abuse

Franklin Township Elementary School Teacher Charged with Sexually Assaulting a Student

According to Fox43, a second-grade teacher at the Franklin Township Elementary School has been charged in connection with the sexual assault of a child.

Vincent Paul Marfia, 40-years-old, allegedly sexually assaulted a child between the years of 2010 and 2014. The assault began when the child was 10-years-old. Police have not released additional details regarding the assault of the child.

The charges include involuntary deviate sexual intercourse, indecent assault, and corruption of minors. Police believe that given his position in the school district that there may be additional victims. The district is aware of the charges and claims they will cooperate with law enforcement.

Marfia, when requested to comment on the charges against him, said, “no comment.”

Legal Options of Victims Sexually Assaulted by a Teacher

Attorney contributor Guy D'Andrea has represented numerous victims sexually abused by a teacher in civil lawsuits. We asked Brian to discuss the legal rights of victims sexually abused to help determine their rights.

“Schools are legally obligated to provide a safe learning environment for their students. Unfortunately, sexual predators are often found working in positions of power at schools. These predators use their positions and trust to abuse trusting students. To ensure the safety of the students on their grounds, schools must provide adequate security measures. Examples of measures that could be implemented are easy reporting systems, security cameras, and guards, but there are plenty more.”

“If a school does not provide proper security for its students, it may be considered liable if sexual misconduct occurs by one of its employees. The school would be deemed liable if misconduct occurred due to negligence. Victims sexually abused by a teacher should secure the services of an experienced sexual abuse lawyer to help determine whether their case involves negligence, and they can file a civil lawsuit. In negligence cases, the victim and their families should know they have grounds for a civil lawsuit.”

Sources:

Fox 43