American Canyon, CA – A Physical Education teacher from American Canyon High School, located at 3000 Newell Dr, American Canyon, CA 94503, has been arrested twice in one week and charged with multiple felony sex crimes against a student. Additionally, the principal of the high school has been placed on leave as the investigation into the allegations continues.
Napa Valley PE Teacher Arrested for Child Abuse
Brad Rowell, 41, has been charged with 21 felony sex crimes against a female student. Court documents indicate the alleged crimes began last summer and continued until last week when the victim was between the ages of 15 and 16. Rowell teaches PE at the North Bay high school and the sex acts were said to have occurred on campus. The Napa County Sheriff’s Office, which made the initial arrest on April 9, 2024, said the school resource officer uncovered “very disturbing evidence” that led to Rowell’s arrest. He was bailed out but then arrested again on April 12, 2024, as more evidence surfaced.
Concerns from Parents and School District Following Teacher’s Arrest
The Napa Valley Unified School District held an emergency community meeting on Wednesday evening to inform parents and address the serious nature of the case.
Parents in attendance expressed shock and dismay at the allegations. One parent, Jordanna Howard, said her son had described Rowell as “a really nice guy” who was “very friendly and buddy buddy with the female students.” Another parent, Jeffrey Fredeen, echoed similar sentiments, stating his son had also viewed Rowell as “a nice guy.”
Superintendent Rosanna Mucetti addressed the community, calling the alleged acts “extremely concerning” and “absolutely unacceptable.” She promised a comprehensive and thorough investigation into the matter, stating the district would “look at our systems” to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.
Authorities Searching for More Victims of School Sex Abuse
The shocking revelations have left the tight-knit community reeling, with parents expressing a mix of disbelief and heartbreak over the troubling allegations. As the investigation unfolds, law enforcement is working to determine if there are any additional victims who may have been targeted by the teacher.
Holding Schools Accountable for School Sex Abuse
In the aftermath of the disturbing allegations against Brad Rowell, a Physical Education teacher at American Canyon High School accused of multiple sex crimes against a female student, the community is grappling with the devastating impact. To better understand the legal rights and options available for victims, as well as how to hold negligent schools accountable, we sat down with Bobby Thompson, Esq., an experienced California school sex abuse lawyer.
Attorney Laurence Banville (LB): Thank you for joining us, Bobby.
Attorney Bobby Thompson (BT): Thank you, Laurence. It’s a pleasure to be here and discuss the legal rights available for survivors of school sexual abuse.
LB: When it comes to cases of sexual abuse by a high school Physical Education teacher, what are the general legal rights available to the survivors?
BT: Survivors of sexual abuse by a high school Physical Education teacher have legal rights that are designed to protect and support them. Under California law, they can pursue legal action against the perpetrator for the harm they have endured. Additionally, in certain cases, they may have grounds to hold the school accountable for negligence in providing a safe environment and addressing warning signs.
LB: How can survivors go about holding negligent schools accountable for the abuse that occurred on their premises?
BT: Holding negligent schools accountable requires a comprehensive approach. Survivors need to gather evidence, document incidents, and work with an experienced attorney who specializes in school sex abuse cases. By building a strong case, survivors can seek justice and ensure that schools are held responsible for their failures to protect students from such abuse.
LB: What advice would you give to survivors who may be hesitant or unsure about coming forward or seeking legal recourse?
BT: It’s understandable that survivors may feel hesitant or uncertain about taking legal action. My advice to them would be to reach out to a compassionate and experienced attorney who can guide them through the process. Survivors should know that they are not alone and that there is support available to help them navigate the legal system and seek the justice they deserve.
LB: Thank you, Mr. Thompson, for sharing your insights on this crucial matter. It’s essential for survivors to understand their legal rights and have the necessary guidance to hold negligent schools accountable for their actions.
BT: Thank you, Laurence. I hope that by raising awareness and providing support, we can empower survivors and create safer environments in our schools.
Holding High Schools Accountable for Child Sex Abuse
If you or a loved one have been the victim of sexual abuse by a teacher or school employee, we urge you to contact us today for a free, confidential consultation. Our team of dedicated attorneys is committed to fighting for the rights of survivors and holding all responsible parties accountable.
Sources:
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
