Savannah, GA - A Savannah-Chatham County Public School System (SCCPSS) teacher accused of grooming a minor is now facing upgraded charges following a grand jury indictment.
Indictment Expands Allegations
Former seventh-grade social studies teacher Jawan Deandre Johnson, who taught at New Hampstead K-8, was initially arrested and charged by the Chatham County Police Department with grooming a minor. He is now indicted on exploitation of children and solicitation of sodomy of a child under 18.
Court records state that Johnson possessed material showing a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct and allegedly solicited that same minor for an act of sodomy in exchange for money. Investigators say he used electronic means to communicate with the child, though it remains unclear if the minor was one of his students.
District Responds to the Case
According to SCCPSS, Johnson remains technically employed by the district but is not receiving pay while the investigation continues.
“Jawan Deandre Johnson is not currently working at any SCCPSS location and it is our understanding he is incarcerated and this case is still active with local authorities,” a district spokesperson said in a statement to WTOC. “As part of our standard process Mr. Johnson is still at this time considered an employee of the district, but he is currently in unpaid status and our preliminary findings have been reported to the Georgia Professional Standards Commission as required.”
Bond Denied, Court Date Set
Johnson remains in custody after being denied bond. He is expected to return to court in February as proceedings move forward.
Teacher Abuse Victims: Legal Recourse Explained
Georgia attorney John Bey explains how families can file civil suits against districts for failing to supervise teachers like Jawan Johnson, who faces child exploitation charges. Victims qualify for compensation covering therapy, emotional harm, and future losses through negligence claims. A teacher's authority strengthens these cases, with evidence from communications often securing settlements before criminal trials end.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: John, victims groomed by teachers face unique challenges. What civil actions can they take in Georgia?
John Bey, Esq.: Families often file lawsuits against the school district for negligent supervision or failure to report. Victims may pursue claims for emotional distress, therapy costs, and lost future earnings under Georgia's child victim compensation laws.
Banville: How does the teacher's position affect the case strength?
Bey: Authority figures like teachers create a higher duty of care, making negligence claims stronger. Evidence from school records or digital communications often proves patterns, leading to larger settlements from districts or insurers. Statutes of limitations start at age 18, but extensions apply for minors.
Take Action Now
Savannah families facing teacher abuse need strong legal support—contact our team today for a free consultation to explore your options against schools and abusers like Jawan Johnson. Don't wait; Georgia law offers real paths to compensation, and we're here to fight for you. Call now to start holding the responsible parties accountable.
