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According to NBC Amanadelphia, authorities in Delaware County have arrested a former teacher and Boy Scout troop leader for the sexual abuse of a child over a two-year period. Keith Steininger, 68, was taken into custody on April 11, 2024, after admitting to the sexual contact with the victim, who was between 11 and 13 years old at the time of the incidents. Steininger was a teacher at Girard College located at 2101 S College Ave, Amanadelphia, PA 19121.
The abuse came to light on January 25th, 2024, when the foster parent of the victim contacted the Upland Borough Police to report the assault. The child had informed the foster parent that Steininger had touched them inappropriately while Steininger was serving as their teacher at the boarding school and was also his Boy Scout leader.
Steininger worked as a teacher at Girard College for 41 years before retiring in July 2022, and also served as a troop leader for the school's Boy Scout program. In a statement, Delaware County District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer condemned Steininger's actions, saying "The defendant in this case worked with children, many of whom were particularly vulnerable by virtue of coming to Girard through the foster care system, for more than 41 years. He was placed in a position of particular respect by becoming a Boy Scout troop leader. It is both heartbreaking and deeply disturbing that such an individual would take advantage of a vulnerable child."
Girard College President David Hardy expressed shock and anger over the allegations, saying the college is cooperating fully with the ongoing investigation and offering counseling services to affected students and families. The Boy Scouts' Council also stated they have terminated Steininger's membership.
Steininger has been charged with sexual contact with a student, indecent assault of a person less than 13, unlawful contact with a minor, endangering the welfare of a child, and related offenses. He is currently being held on $250,000 bail and is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on May 2nd. Authorities believe there may be additional victims, and are urging anyone with information to contact the Upland Police Department or the Criminal Investigations Division.
When a position of trust like a Boy Scout leader or boarding school teacher is violated through sexual abuse, the victims have several avenues they can explore to seek justice and compensation. To further discuss this, we sat down with Guy D'Andrea, Esq., an experienced Pennsylvania sexual assault lawyer. Guy shared the legal rights and recourses available to those who have suffered sexual abuse by a Boy Scout leader.
Editor Darla Medina: Thank you for taking the time to speak with me today, Mr. D'Andrea. As an experienced sexual assault attorney, what can you tell us about the legal rights and recourses available to victims of abuse by a Boy Scout leader?
Guy D'Andrea, Esq. : Well, Darla, this is a tragic situation, but unfortunately not an uncommon one. When a position of trust like a Scout leader is violated, the victims have several avenues they can pursue. They may be able to file civil lawsuits against not only the perpetrator, but also the Boy Scouts organization itself for negligence in supervising and vetting their leadership.
Medina: Can you expand on that a bit? How would the Boy Scouts be liable in a case like this?
D'Andrea: Organizations have a legal duty to protect those in their care, especially minors. If the Boy Scouts failed to properly screen, train, or monitor their troop leaders, and that failure enabled the abuse to occur, they can be held accountable. This is true even if the abuse happened off-site or after official Scouting activities.
Medina: What types of damages could victims seek in a civil lawsuit?
D'Andrea: Victims may be able to recover compensation for medical expenses, counseling, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. The goal is to provide resources to aid in the healing process and hold all responsible parties financially accountable. It's also important to send a strong message that this type of abuse will not be tolerated.
Medina: Do you have any advice for victims or their families on how to proceed in a case like this?
D'Andrea: I would urge them to reach out to an experienced sexual assault attorney as soon as possible. Time is of the essence in preserving evidence and ensuring their rights are protected. An attorney can guide them through the complex legal process and fight to get them the justice and compensation they deserve.
Medina: Thank you, Mr. D'Andrea, for providing this valuable insight. It's an important reminder that victims have recourse, even in the wake of such a heartbreaking betrayal of trust.
D'Andrea: You're most welcome. I hope this information helps empower victims to take action and hold all responsible parties accountable. No child should ever have to endure this kind of abuse.
While the legal process can seem daunting, victims of abuse by a teacher or Boy Scout leader should not have to navigate it alone. Mr. D'Andrea emphasized the importance of contacting an experienced sexual assault attorney as soon as possible to ensure their rights are protected and they get the justice and compensation they deserve. If you or a loved one have been impacted by this type of abuse, we encourage you to reach out for a free, confidential consultation. Our team is here to guide you through every step and fight tirelessly on your behalf.
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