Miami-Dade, FL - A Miami-Dade school security guard has been arrested after police say he engaged in a sexual encounter with a 17-year-old student.
Arrest and Charges
Authorities identified the guard as 24-year-old Slyvester Lee James. He was taken into custody Sunday and charged with offenses against students by authority figures, according to Miami-Dade jail records.
Details From the Report
Investigators said the teen attends the same school where James works, though the arrest report does not identify the institution. NBC6 confirmed, however, that the school is not part of the public school system.
According to the police report, the student told detectives she had been in contact with James over the phone before agreeing to meet him off school grounds. During that meeting, which took place inside his vehicle, the teen said she performed a sex act on him.
Investigation and Court Action
Detectives interviewed James, who acknowledged he knew the girl from school before requesting an attorney, the report stated. James, a resident of Cutler Bay, was later booked into the Miami-Dade jail.
A judge has since set his bond at $5,000 and ordered him to have no contact with the victim.
Florida Attorney Discusses Legal Steps Families Can Take After Alleged Sexual Abuse by School Security Guard
Following recent reports of a Miami-Dade school security guard accused of engaging in a sexual act with a student, we spoke with veteran Florida sexual abuse lawyer Michael Haggard. During their discussion, Haggard explained how families can take legal action in such cases, addressing both the potential civil claims and the responsibilities of schools to protect students from abuse and misconduct.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: When a situation like this happens involving a school employee, what steps can a victim’s family take?
Michael Haggard, Esq.: The first step is ensuring the victim is safe and receiving proper support. From a legal standpoint, families can pursue civil claims against both the individual accused and potentially the institution that employed them if negligence played a role. This includes investigating whether the school failed to conduct background checks, ignored warning signs, or lacked protective policies.
Banville: Can these cases lead to policy changes or accountability beyond financial settlements?
Haggard: Absolutely. Civil cases often expose systemic problems within schools or private organizations, leading to reforms that help prevent future abuse. Holding institutions accountable doesn’t just provide compensation—it pushes for safer environments for every student.
Legal Help for Families of Abuse Victims
Families affected by sexual misconduct involving school employees don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Our team of experienced attorneys stands ready to review your situation, explain your legal rights, and guide you through every step of the process. Contact us today for a free and confidential consultation to learn how we can help you seek accountability and protect your loved one’s future.
