Summerfield, FL - Lake Weir Middle School Dean, Henry Anderson, Arrested For Allegedly Sexual Assaulting a 14-Year-Old Student

Track Student Sexually Assaulted by Middle School Dean

According to WESH News, amid sexual assault charges, the dean of Lake Weir Middle School, located at 10220 SE Sunset Harbor Rd, Summerfield, FL 34491, has been put on administrative leave.

Thursday, May 5, 2022, 40-year-old Henry Anderson was arrested. Anderson is employed as the dean and coached the victim's track team at the Marion County middle school. Allegedly, he picked up the 14-year-old girl from her home to exercise in the school gym where the abuse was said to have taken place. Anderson has been put on administrative leave during the investigation, and police are checking if there are any additional victims.

Can a Middle School Be Liable For Sex Abuse?

Attorney contributor Michael Haggard is a sexual assault attorney in Florida. Michael has years of experience representing victims of school sexual assault in civil lawsuits. He recently provided his knowledge on the legal rights of victims sexually abused by a middle school dean.

"It is the legal responsibility of a middle school administration to provide a safe learning environment for the students while on their campus. To ensure this safety, schools should do everything possible to prevent predators from acquiring jobs within the school. Certain security measures help to reduce the likelihood of misconduct and should not be neglected. Unfortunately, countless incidences of sexual assault by school employees, such as deans, teachers, and coaches, have been reported across the country. Schools and administrators should do thorough background checks on all applicants, install cameras throughout the campus, and implement a reporting system in order to decrease the chance of sexual abuse."

"However, if a middle school neglects the necessary safety precautions, they could be held accountable for the abuse that occurs. Victims and their families should consult with an experienced sexual assault lawyer to learn more about their legal options. A sexual assault lawyer will examine all elements of the incident to determine if the school failed to prevent the abuse. If previous reports of misconduct were ignored, victims could file a lawsuit against the negligent school. In cases of neglectful school security, victims may be able to recover compensation."

Sources:

WESH News