Cherry Hill Township, NJ – Six former students have filed lawsuits against the Cherry Hill school district, alleging the district failed to protect them from a teacher accused of sexually abusing students during the early 1980s. The lawsuits claim that Otto Becken, a sixth-grade teacher at James F. Cooper Elementary School, had a known history of inappropriate and abusive behavior toward young students, yet district officials failed to act.
Sexual Abuse Allegations Span Classroom and School Trips
The complaints describe abuse occurring both inside and outside the school. Plaintiffs allege that Becken targeted students during lunch periods and on a week-long camping trip in the Pinelands. The lawsuits argue that district administrators were aware of Becken’s close relationships with students and concerning comments, but did not intervene or report the behavior to state authorities.
Chuck Wicker, now 54, was among the first to file suit in 2023. He states that Becken’s abuse began when he was invited to lunch in the classroom for extra reading help and continued over an extended period. “Like so many others, it took me a while to come forward but it will have been worth it if it will help protect children in New Jersey,” Wicker said.
District Denies Allegations, Records Show Prior Warnings
In response to the lawsuits, the Cherry Hill school district has denied any failure to protect students, according to court documents. However, the complaints cite records showing that by 1977, district administrators had already warned Becken to maintain professional boundaries with students. The principal at the time reportedly told Becken that he needed to “draw a line between teachers and pupils,” referencing concerns about his choice of subject matter, games, and interactions.
Attorneys for the plaintiffs argue that Becken’s reputation for inappropriate behavior was well known within the district. They say that despite warnings and reports from students, including a 1977 complaint from a girl in Becken’s class, no investigation was conducted, and authorities were not notified.
Teacher Resigned After Criminal Charges
Becken was charged in August 1984 with multiple counts of sexual assault, endangering, abuse, and neglect. He pleaded guilty in 1985 to three counts of sexual assault involving children under 13. Under a settlement agreement, Becken resigned from the district in January 1985 and forfeited his teaching certificate. Court records do not indicate the sentence he received. Becken died in Pennsylvania in 2011.
Attorneys Cite Institutional Failures
The lawsuits accuse the district of ignoring clear warnings and failing to take action to protect students. “This is a case about institutional failure, and these complaints allege that the district had clear warnings and should have known about Becken’s behavior, yet did nothing to protect the children under their care,” said the attorney.
District officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the new lawsuits. The cases highlight ongoing concerns about how past reports of abuse in schools were handled and the long-term impact on survivors.
Rights and Options for Victims of Teacher Sexual Abuse in New Jersey
As lawsuits against the Cherry Hill school district bring renewed attention to cases of sexual abuse by educators, many survivors are left wondering what steps they can take to seek accountability and support. Attorney Stewart Ryan, who has handled numerous sexual abuse cases in New Jersey, shares practical advice on the legal options available for those who experienced abuse at the hands of a teacher. His perspective offers hope and clarity for individuals considering legal action, emphasizing the protections and support now available under state law.
Laurence Banville: Stewart, with these lawsuits against the Cherry Hill school district making headlines, what legal options do survivors of sexual abuse by teachers have in New Jersey?
Stewart Ryan, Esq.: Survivors in New Jersey have several paths they can take. The state has extended the statute of limitations for civil claims involving child sexual abuse, so even if the abuse happened decades ago, individuals may still have the right to file a lawsuit against both the perpetrator and the institution that failed to protect them. This includes school districts, which can be held liable if they knew about the abuse or failed to act on warning signs.
Banville: What should survivors consider before coming forward?
Ryan: It’s important for survivors to know they’re not alone and that the law is more supportive now than it was in the past. Consulting with an attorney who has experience in these cases can help them understand their rights and what to expect. Confidentiality and support are priorities throughout the legal process.
Banville: How can these lawsuits impact school districts and future cases?
Ryan: These cases can lead to policy changes, increased training, and better reporting systems within schools. They also send a message that institutions will be held accountable if they fail to protect children. Most importantly, they give survivors a voice and a chance to seek accountability.
Support Is Within Reach – Contact Us for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one experienced sexual abuse by a teacher, you don’t have to face this alone. Understanding your rights and exploring your legal options can be the first step toward healing and accountability. Our team is ready to listen, guide, and fight for your interests with compassion and determination. Reach out today for a free, confidential consultation and take the next step toward justice and support.
Source
Mr. Banville is a personal injury attorney who has experience in handling auto accidents, work injuries, medical malpractice, dog bites, slip and falls, and representing survivors and victims of sexual abuse. Mr. Banville is affiliated with law firms in Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, D.C., and Maryland. Abuse Guardian
