Teacher and professors are generally held in high esteem, serve as role models and typically students look up to them, trust them and seek guidance from them. Thus, when the trusted and respected teacher-student bond is violated or broken the consequences on the community and the person are devastating. Connecticut residents may find it interesting to learn that in July 2014 a 36-year-old English teacher and former Southern Connecticut State University adjunct professor was arrested and charged with second degree sexual assault of a 17-year-old girl.
According to reports, the 36-year-old was arrested in front of his students while he was teaching at SCSU. Authorities were alerted about the alleged sexual assault incident after the superintendent of the Ledyard High School informed them regarding a possible inappropriate sexual relationship between a female student and teacher during the 2013-2014 school year.
The 36-year-old teacher allegedly emailed the 17-year-old student and shared personal matters with her. At some point the relationship turned sexual and he had intercourse with the girl both at the high school and at his home. When the 17-year-old victim of sexual assault tried to end the relationship, the 36-year-old teacher threatened to harm himself. Nevertheless, the student was able to end the relationship and allegedly found a note in a book from the 36-year-old apologizing to her for letting their relationship turn sexual in nature.
Following his arrest, the 36-year-old was charged with second degree sexual assault of a 17-year-old. Under CT General Statute, a charge of second degree sexual assault includes sexual contact between a student and a school employee. It is a felony level charge, and if convicted it carries a minimum of nine months in prison. Though the matter is being dealt with in criminal court, a person who has sexually abused as a child may also be held financially liable for the injuries they caused to child victim. Contacting an attorney familiar with the intricacies of sexual abuse and assault civil cases may be helpful.
Source: New Haven Register, “Ex-SCSU instructor accused of sex with high school student,” Brian Charles, October 30, 2014
