Sanborn, NY - Melissa Demmin, a Teacher’s Aide at Niagara Academy, Accused of Sexually Abusing Two Male Students

Two Students Sexually Abused By Teacher's Aide

My Twin Tiers has reported that a teacher's aide is facing sex abuse charges while employed at the Orleans Niagara BOCES technical school, located at 3181 Saunders Settlement Rd, Sanborn, NY 14132. 

A school resource officer was informed of two male students that were abused by 33-year-old Melissa Demmin. Demmin, a teacher's aide at the academy, has been charged with engaging in unwanted sexual contact with the two minors during this school year. She was arrested on Wednesday, April 27, 2022. 

Can a School Be Held Liable for Sexual Abuse?

Attorney contributor, Laurence Banville, is an experienced school sexual assault lawyer licensed in New York. Mr. Banville often represents victims and their families in private civil litigation. During a recent interview, he discussed who can be held liable if a student is sexually abused by a teacher's aide.

"In recent news, we have heard numerous reports of victims being sexually abused by school employees, including teacher's aides. These leadership positions gain the power and trust of both students and their parents. School districts and officials have a legal duty to make sure all school employees have passed a background check. These checks, along with security cameras on the campus and frequent sweeps from a resource officer, can reduce the risk of danger to their students. However, failure to offer sufficient security precautions could deem a school liable in the event of abuse."

"If a teacher's aide, or other school employee, is arrested or accused of sexual contact with a student, both criminal and civil options may be available for the victims. Criminal laws will ensure the perpetrator is charged and sentenced accordingly. However, it may be necessary to investigate the school's security in order to determine if they could have prevented the abuse. If previous reports of misconduct were reported but not investigated, school officials or the district could be considered negligent. Victims sexually abused by a school employee should discuss their potential case with an experienced school sexual assault attorney to learn more about their legal rights."

Sources:

My Twin Tiers