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According to WHYY, John Ervin Arnold, a respected school psychologist in Delaware's Brandywine School District, has been arrested on multiple felony charges, including first- and second-degree rape, for the alleged sexual abuse of young girls. Most recently, he had been employed in Brandywine School District's summer school program at Claymont Elementary. Prior to his current role, Arnold worked at Mount Pleasant Elementary School and then later at Lombardy Elementary, located at 412 Foulk Rd, Wilmington, DE 19803.
Arnold, who has worked as an emotional support specialist in the district since 2001, is accused of sexually abusing several girls, including a 5-year-old child, over the course of several years. The allegations surfaced earlier this month when the young victim reported the inappropriate behavior during a discussion on "good touches and bad touches" at a day camp. He is facing multiple felony charges, including first and second-degree rape.
According to a police arrest affidavit, the 5-year-old girl claimed that Arnold had sexually abused her "a lot of times," even clarifying that it had occurred "ten hundred times." The investigation also revealed that Arnold had been suspected of molesting another relative several years earlier in Florida.
The allegations have sent shockwaves through the Brandywine School District, where Arnold was regarded as a trusted counselor. Superintendent Lisa Lawson expressed her horror upon learning the details of the warrant, stating that the district had conducted a thorough background check on Arnold prior to his hiring and had no prior knowledge of any issues.
"We are absolutely shocked at the detailed information in the warrant," Lawson said. "We understand now why it's a million dollars bail and we had absolutely no prior information related to any of this."
The district has begun taking appropriate disciplinary action and has reached out to families to provide support and resources during this difficult time.
Arnold currently faces a staggering $1.05 million cash bail and is being held at the Howard R. Young Correctional Institution in Wilmington following an alleged attempted suicide. The case has rocked the community and raised serious questions about the vetting process for individuals in positions of trust within the education system.
Authorities are urging anyone with additional information or concerns to come forward and contact authorities.
In the wake of the disturbing allegations against school psychologist John Ervin Arnold, the community is grappling with how to address this horrific situation and ensure justice is served. To better understand the legal rights and recourse available to victims sexually abused by school psychologists, we sat down with Aman Sharma, a leading sexual abuse lawyer in the state of Delaware. Sharma provided valuable insights on the potential avenues for criminal prosecution, as well as civil lawsuits that could hold negligent parties accountable.
Editor Darla Medina: Thank you for joining me today, Mr. Sharma. As an experienced sexual abuse lawyer in Delaware, can you explain what legal recourse may be available for the victims in this disturbing case involving the school psychologist?
Attorney Aman Sharma: Absolutely, Darla. In situations like this, the victims and their families have several potential avenues to pursue justice and compensation. First and foremost, criminal charges can and should be brought against the perpetrator for their heinous actions.
DM: And what about the school district? Can they also be held liable in a case like this?
AS: Yes, that's a critical point. The Brandywine School District may very well bear responsibility as well. If it's found that they were aware of any prior complaints or warning signs about this individual, yet failed to take proper precautions to protect the students, then the district can be sued civilly.
DM: What types of damages could the victims and their families recover in a civil lawsuit against the school district?
AS: The damages can be substantial, Darla. We're talking compensatory damages to cover medical expenses, therapy, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Punitive damages may also be awarded to punish the school district for their negligence and discourage similar failures to protect students in the future.
DM: That's important information for the victims to know as they consider their legal options moving forward. Do you have any final advice for them?
AS: The most important thing is for the victims to seek support - both legal and therapeutic. They should not hesitate to come forward and work with experienced attorneys and counselors who can guide them through this difficult process and fight to hold all responsible parties accountable.
DM: Thank you, Mr. Sharma, for providing this valuable perspective. I'm sure it will be helpful for the victims and the community as they grapple with this troubling situation.
AS: You're very welcome, Darla. I'm happy to lend my expertise in any way that can assist the victims and ensure justice is served.
For the victims and their families struggling in similar traumatic situations, it's crucial to remember that you are not alone. There are experienced professionals and advocates available to provide the support and legal guidance you need during this difficult time.
We encourage anyone who has suffered sexual abuse at the hands of a counselor to reach out for a free, confidential consultation. Our team of compassionate attorneys is here to listen, answer your questions, and help you understand the full scope of your rights and options for obtaining justice and just compensation.
No victim should have to face the aftermath of sexual abuse by themselves. Please don't hesitate to contact us today. Together, we can work to hold all responsible parties accountable and begin the healing process.
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