Brackenridge, PA - Allegheny County police say there may be additional victims after former Highlands School District teacher Sean Dicer was charged last week with sexually abusing two students. Dicer, 53, is currently being held in the Allegheny County Jail facing multiple charges, including institutional sexual assault, involuntary deviate sexual intercourse, and sexual extortion.
Police Reveal Allegations Stemming From 2021
According to investigators, a 16-year-old boy came forward in November, alleging that Dicer abused him in 2021 while employed by Highlands School District. The criminal complaint states the victim met Dicer years earlier at a park when he was just 8 years old. Over time, Dicer allegedly became a “father figure” to the child.
Abuse Allegedly Continued Throughout the Summer
Detectives said the first victim introduced a friend—also a Highlands student—to Dicer during the summer of 2021. Both teens were allegedly abused at Dicer’s Brackenridge home until school resumed that fall. When one of the boys threatened to report him, police said Dicer would apologize and attempt to keep him quiet by offering money and gifts. Investigators confirmed finding Cash App payments from Dicer to one victim totaling $6,000.
Detectives Believe Other Victims May Exist
Following Dicer’s arrest, police reported receiving new information suggesting there could be additional victims connected to the case. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact the Allegheny County Police tip line at 1-833-ALL-TIPS.
Highlands School District Responds
In a statement, the Highlands School District confirmed that Dicer resigned in 2022. “While we are unable to comment on specific personnel issues, Highlands School District follows all required procedures if there is an allegation of an inappropriate relationship between a teacher and a student,” the district said.
PA Attorney Explains Legal Options for Victims Abused by Teachers
Following the arrest of former Highlands School District teacher Sean Dicer for allegedly abusing students, questions have surfaced about what rights and legal actions victims can take. Our team sat down with Pennsylvania sexual abuse lawyer Max Morgan to discuss how survivors can seek accountability through both the criminal justice system and civil court.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: When a teacher is accused of abusing students, what legal options do survivors typically have?
Max Morgan, Esq.: Victims can pursue both criminal justice and civil lawsuits. The criminal process focuses on holding the offender accountable through prosecution. On the civil side, victims may file lawsuits against the individual abuser and, in some cases, the school district if negligence played a role—such as failing to act on warning signs or previous complaints.
Banville: Are there limits to when a survivor can take legal action?
Morgan: Yes, but Pennsylvania has updated its laws in recent years to extend the statute of limitations for sexual abuse claims. Victims should speak with an attorney as soon as possible to understand how these timelines apply to their situation. Early legal advice helps preserve evidence and strengthens a potential case.
Banville: What resources are available for those who might still be fearful of coming forward?
Morgan: There are confidential hotlines, advocacy groups, and law firms with teams trained to handle such cases with care and discretion. The most important step is knowing help is available, and survivors don’t have to go through this alone.
Support and Legal Guidance for Survivors
Victims of sexual abuse by educators have the right to seek justice and hold those responsible accountable. Our legal team understands the sensitivity of these cases and stands ready to help survivors and their families take the next step. If you or someone you love was harmed by a teacher or school employee, contact us today for a free, confidential consultation to learn about your legal options.
Source
https://www.cbsnews.com/pittsburgh/news/more-victims-highlands-school-district-teacher-sexual-abuse/
