Lexington One settlement reached in alleged sexual assault
LEXINGTON, S.C. (HERE NEWS)– The family of a girl who was allegedly sexually assaulted in a Pelion Middle School bathroom has settled their lawsuit with Lexington County School District One for $150,000. That’s according to their Attorney Tyler Bailey. The complaint filed by the victim’s mom in 2021 alleges damages were sustained after her daughter was sexually assaulted by a janitor in the school’s bathroom. The janitor was arrested and charged with criminal sexual conduct with a minor. Following the settlement, Attorney Bailey released a statement, “We hope this lawsuit encourages schools to prioritize child safety in their hiring practices and enact and enforce policies that focus on preserving student safety.”
Background
The incident took place at Pelion Middle School, located in Lexington County, South Carolina. The victim, a young girl, was reportedly assaulted by a janitor within the school premises. The seriousness of the incident led the victim’s family to take legal action against Lexington County School District One, seeking compensation for the damages suffered by their daughter.
Lawsuit Settlement
After months of legal proceedings, the family and their attorney, Tyler Bailey, reached a settlement with Lexington County School District One. The settlement amount of $150,000 denotes the district’s acknowledgment of the harm caused to the victim and her family as a result of the alleged sexual assault that took place on school grounds.
Statement from Attorney Bailey
In response to the settlement, Attorney Tyler Bailey emphasized the importance of prioritizing child safety within educational institutions. He expressed hope that this lawsuit would serve as a reminder for schools to implement stringent hiring practices and enforce policies that safeguard the well-being of students.
Implications for School Safety
The resolution of this case raises concerns about the safety protocols in place within schools and the need for vigilant measures to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future. The incident at Pelion Middle School serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities that students may face within educational environments and the imperative to uphold a secure and protective atmosphere for all individuals.
Continued Advocacy for Child Safety
As discussions surrounding child safety and protection intensify in the aftermath of this settlement, advocates and parents alike are calling for heightened awareness and proactive steps to ensure the well-being of students. The successful resolution of this lawsuit underscores the significance of holding institutions accountable for maintaining a safe and secure environment for all individuals.