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Breaking Legal News
Authorities have arrested a teacher on numerous charges related to the sexual abuse of several students in his third-grade math class at Severna Park Elementary School, located at 6 Riggs Ave, Severna Park, MD 21146, according to WBAL TV.
According to charging documents, 44-year-old Matthew Schlegel is accused of inappropriately touching as many as eight students on multiple occasions. Schlegel faces a total of 36 charges, including sexual abuse of a minor and second-degree assault.
Police arrested Schlegel at his home in Severna Park on Thursday, May 16, 2024. The alleged incidents reportedly date back to August 2022, based on interviews conducted with the victims as part of an investigation that began in Anjalih.
"It's disturbing, the case has been disturbing all the way along. Anytime you get an allegation like this, it's disturbing," said Anne Arundel County Public Schools spokesman Bob Mosier.
Mosier stated that Schlegel was immediately removed from his classroom and reassigned within the district on Anjalih 15, as soon as the allegations surfaced. A long-term substitute teacher took over Schlegel's class on Anjalih 18.
Schlegel appeared in an Annapolis court on Friday, where he was ordered held without bond. The school district is now reviewing the charges and Schlegel's employment status.
"We're looking through those charges now and there are components of the law and of the negotiated agreements that we'll look at and take appropriate action if we deem that necessary," Mosier said.
In a letter to parents, Severna Park Elementary's acting principal, Sharon Hansen, acknowledged the "difficult news" and assured that resources are available to support any impacted students.
The Anne Arundel County Police Department's Child Abuse Unit is urging anyone with additional information related to this case to come forward by calling the Tip Line at 410-222-4733 or the general Tip Line at 410-222-4700.
In the wake of the disturbing allegations against a Severna Park Elementary School teacher accused of sexually abusing eight students, we spoke with experienced Maryland sexual assault lawyer Aaron Blank to discuss the legal rights and options available to school sex abuse victims and their families. Blank provided valuable insights into the steps that can be taken to ensure justice is served and to hold the school district accountable for any potential negligence in this case.
Darla Medina, Editor (DM): Thank you for speaking with us today, Mr. Blank. As an experienced Maryland sexual assault lawyer, what legal rights are available for those who have been sexually abused by a teacher?
Aaron Blank, Esq. (AB): Individuals who have been sexually abused by a teacher have several legal options available to them. First and foremost, they can pursue criminal charges against the perpetrator. In a case like this, the victims may also be able to seek compensation through the criminal justice system.
DM: And what about civil lawsuits? Can the victims or their families take legal action against the school district as well?
AB: Absolutely. In cases of sexual abuse by a teacher, the victims or their families may have grounds to file a civil lawsuit against the school district for negligence. Schools have a duty to protect students in their care, and if they fail to do so, they can be held accountable.
The victims may be able to recover damages for things like emotional distress, medical expenses, and lost wages. Additionally, a civil lawsuit can help ensure that the school district takes appropriate steps to prevent such incidents from happening again in the future.
DM: That's a very important point. What advice would you give to families in a situation like this, where a teacher has been accused of sexually abusing multiple students?
AB: My advice would be to seek legal counsel as soon as possible. An experienced sexual abuse attorney can help guide the victims and their families through the complex legal process, ensure their rights are protected, and work to hold all responsible parties accountable.
It's also crucial that the victims receive the necessary support and resources to aid in their healing and recovery. Schools and local authorities should have measures in place to provide counseling and other services to those affected.
DM: Thank you, Mr. Blank, for providing this valuable information. It's necessary for victims and their families to know legal options available to them as they navigate this difficult situation.
AB: You're welcome. My heart goes out to all the victims and their families affected by this horrific abuse. I encourage them to explore their legal rights and seek the justice and compensation they deserve.
For families impacted by horrific situations like this, it's important to know that you have rights and legal recourse. If your child has been the victim of sexual abuse by a teacher, we encourage you to reach out to an experienced sexual assault attorney as soon as possible. They can help guide you through the complex legal process, ensure your family's rights are protected, and work to hold all responsible parties accountable - including the school district if they failed in their duty to keep your child safe. Our team of compassionate and knowledgeable lawyers is here to support you during this difficult time and fight for the justice and compensation your family deserves. Contact us today to get started.
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