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A shocking development has emerged from Santa Paula, where David Lane Braff Jr., a 42-year-old assistant principal from Thousand Oaks, was taken into custody on charges of molesting eight young children during his time at McKevett Elementary School located at 955 E Pleasant St, Santa Paula, CA 93060.
Braff is accused of committing lewd acts against students aged 6 to 10 while serving as a counselor at the school from 2015 to 2019, according to the Los Angeles Times. The allegations were brought to light following an investigation initiated last month by the Ventura County district attorney’s office and the Santa Paula Police Department.
The charges against Braff include 17 felony counts specifically related to lewd acts upon children under the age of 14. At the time of his arrest on Friday, November 22, 2024, he held a position as an assistant principal and school counselor at Ingenium Charter Middle School located at 7330 Winnetka Ave, Winnetka, CA 91306. He is currently being held in Ventura County jail with bail set at $3 million.
Ventura County District Attorney Erik Nasarenko expressed the gravity of the situation, stating that the defendant’s actions have severely breached the trust placed in him by the community. Authorities are urging anyone with additional information or potential victims to come forward as the investigation continues.
Braff's history of employment in Southern California schools and potential involvement with youth organizations is under scrutiny, raising concerns about the safety and well-being of other children. He is scheduled for arraignment on Monday in Ventura County Superior Court.
In the aftermath of distressing allegations against educational professionals, parents face numerous challenges when seeking justice for their children. Attorney Jason Amala specializes in cases of sexual abuse within schools and offers valuable guidance on the legal options available to families. In this interview, he discusses how parents can hold accountable those responsible and secure compensation for the harm their children have endured.
Editor Darla Medina: Thank you for joining us today. Given the recent arrest of David Lane Braff Jr., many parents are understandably concerned about their children's safety. What legal rights do parents have when their child is a victim of sexual abuse by a school counselor?
Attorney Jason Amala: Parents have several important legal rights in such cases. First and foremost, they can pursue civil action against the abuser. This can lead to compensation for the emotional and psychological harm their child has suffered. Additionally, if the school or district failed to protect the child, parents may have grounds for a lawsuit against those institutions for negligence.
Medina: That raises an important point. How can parents demonstrate negligence on the part of the school or district?
Amala: To establish negligence, it must be shown that the school failed to take reasonable steps to protect students. This could include inadequate supervision, ignoring warning signs, or failing to conduct proper background checks. If a school was aware of prior misconduct and did nothing, that could significantly strengthen a case.
Medina: What steps should parents take if they suspect their child has been abused?
Amala: First, it's vital to report the abuse to law enforcement and child protective services. They will investigate the matter thoroughly. Parents should also document everything, including conversations, dates, and any signs of distress in their child. Consulting with a qualified attorney who specializes in these cases can provide guidance on the next steps and help navigate the legal process.
Medina: Are there specific resources available for parents and children affected by such trauma?
Amala: Yes, many organizations offer support, including counseling services and legal advocacy. It's important for parents to seek out these resources to ensure their child receives the help they need. Connecting with other families who have gone through similar experiences can also provide essential support.
Medina: Thank you for your valuable insights. This information is vital for parents looking to protect their children and hold negligent parties accountable.
Amala: Thank you for having me, Darla. It's important that we continue to raise awareness and ensure that victims receive the support they deserve.
If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual abuse in a school setting, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Our team is here to support you through this difficult time. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us guide you on the path to accountability and healing. You don’t have to face this alone—together, we can make a difference.
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