West Palm Beach, FL – Miguel Benavente, 57, a longtime employee of the Palm Beach County School District, was arrested on Tuesday following allegations that he sexually assaulted a boy under the age of 12. Law enforcement officials indicate that additional victims may exist.
Details of Allegations and Investigation into Accused Teacher
According to investigators with the Palm Beach Sheriff’s Office, the probe began in June after the agency was contacted by the School District Police. A former student reported that Benavente sexually abused him multiple times between ages 9 and 14 and started grooming him when he was just 7 years old. This victim initially met Benavente as a family friend.
During the investigation, officials uncovered that Benavente was already under scrutiny for sexual battery involving a different student during his time as a teacher at Roosevelt Middle School. The earlier victim disclosed that the abuse happened at Benavente’s residence when he was 14 years old and that the incident was reported to School Board District Police in 2000. Although that case was investigated, the statute of limitations prevented prosecution.
Pattern of Sexual Abuse and School District Employment
Both victims, who do not know each other, gave consistent accounts describing how Benavente used school assignments as a tactic to bring children to his home. They also noted being forced to watch pornographic material during the assaults. Authorities shared that the recent victim described Benavente as a “monster” and recalled Benavente bringing other students from Roosevelt Middle School to his house.
Benavente has worked for Palm Beach County schools since 1991 in various roles, including teacher and administrator. Notably, a 2002 video from the school district shows Benavente being named Teacher of the Year — two years after the older victim made his report, and during the period the more recent victim claims the abuse continued.
School District Response and Legal Proceedings
Following the arrest, the School District placed Benavente on administrative leave, barred him from accessing school campuses, and prohibited any contact with students. A district spokesperson emphasized that these charges violate the trust placed in employees and reiterated that student safety is the district’s highest priority. The district is fully cooperating with law enforcement inquiries.
Benavente was denied bond on Wednesday, and authorities are urging anyone with additional information to contact Crime Stoppers or the School District Police Department.
Ongoing Concerns of Additional Victims
The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office expressed concern that more victims may come forward as the investigation continues. These developments highlight longstanding issues related to abuse within school environments and the challenges of addressing cases with expired statutes of limitations.
Florida Lawyer Explains Rights in School Sexual Abuse Cases
As new allegations surface against longtime Palm Beach school district employee Miguel Benavente, questions are rising about what survivors of school-based sexual abuse can legally do—especially when the trauma dates back years. We sat down with Florida sexual abuse lawyer Jen Lipinski to discuss what paths are available for those who were harmed as children by trusted educators and how institutions may face consequences for failing to act.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: With these recent charges involving a longtime school employee, what recourse exists for victims who were abused as minors, even if the abuse happened years ago?
Jen Lipenski, Esq.: Florida law has evolved over time, especially for survivors of childhood sexual abuse. Even in cases that date back decades, individuals may still pursue civil claims. For survivors who were children when the abuse occurred, the statute of limitations often doesn’t begin until they reach adulthood—or when they first recognize the emotional impact of the abuse.
Banville: “What about the role of institutions like the school district in cases like this?
Lipenski: If there’s evidence that a school knew—or should have known—about inappropriate behavior and failed to act, they could be held accountable. Patterns of abuse, prior complaints, or lack of disciplinary action can strengthen a civil case. Survivors often file claims not just against the individual, but against the institution for enabling the abuse or failing to protect students.
Banville: For those who might be considering coming forward, what would your message be?
Lipenski: They’re not alone. There are legal paths forward, and speaking up can make a difference—not only for their own healing, but to help protect others. Many of my clients say the first step—reaching out—was also the hardest. But it’s a step worth taking.
Take Action Today: Support and Legal Help Are Just a Call Away
If you or someone you love was sexually abused by a teacher or school employee, you don’t have to face it alone. Our team understands the pain and silence that survivors often carry for years—and we’re here to help. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation. Your voice matters, and the law may still offer a path forward.
