Harrisburg, PA – A Central Dauphin School District employee faces serious charges after allegedly engaging in sexual activities with students. Alexander Jeff “AJ” Sweigard, 32, of Camp Hill, was arrested Thursday, September 12, 2024, on multiple felony counts related to sexual misconduct.
Central Dauphin Middle School Teacher Arrested for Child Sex Crimes
Sweigard, who worked as a middle school teacher’s aide and wrestling coach at Central Dauphin Middle School, is accused of sending explicit photos to a 16-year-old student and having sexual intercourse with an 18-year-old high school student.
The charges against Sweigard include:
- Disseminating explicit sexual materials to a minor
- Unlawful conduct with a minor
- Corruption of minors
- Child pornography
- Sexual contact with a student
- Disseminating photo/film of child sex acts
School District Response to Arrest of Employee on Sexual Abuse Charges
Central Dauphin School District spokeswoman Shannon Leib stated that Sweigard “was immediately removed from all positions at Central Dauphin once we learned of the allegations.” The district declined further comment, citing it as a personnel matter.
Legal Proceedings Following Sexual Assault Allegations
Sweigard is currently held in Dauphin County Prison on $250,000 bail. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for September 24 at 2:15 p.m. in Magisterial District Judge Dominic Pelino’s courtroom in Derry Township.
Sweigard previously attended Central Dauphin High School and played football at Lebanon Valley College. Pennsylvania law prohibits any school employee or volunteer from engaging in sexual activities with students, regardless of the student’s age.
Legal Recourse for Victims of Coach Sexual Abuse
The recent arrest of Alexander Jeff “AJ” Sweigard, a Central Dauphin School District teacher’s aide and wrestling coach, on charges of sexual misconduct with students has brought the issue of coach-student abuse back into the spotlight. Such cases raise important questions about the legal rights of victims and the accountability of institutions. To explore these matters, we spoke with Guy D’Andrea, a seasoned sexual abuse attorney from Pennsylvania. He offers valuable insights into the legal options available to victims and explains how negligent parties can be held responsible for their role in enabling abuse. His shared knowledge provides a roadmap for those seeking to understand the complex legal landscape surrounding these sensitive cases.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: What legal options do victims of coach sexual abuse have?
Guy D’Andrea, Esq.: Victims have several avenues for justice. They can pursue criminal charges against the abuser and file civil lawsuits against both the perpetrator and any institutions that enabled the abuse through negligence. This could include schools, sports organizations, or youth programs that failed to properly screen or supervise the coach.
Banville: How can negligent parties be held accountable?
D’Andrea: Institutions can be held liable if they knew or should have known about the abuse and failed to take appropriate action. This might involve ignoring red flags, failing to investigate complaints, or not implementing proper safeguards. Civil lawsuits can seek compensation for the victim’s damages and push for systemic changes to prevent future abuse.
Banville: What advice would you give to victims considering legal action?
D’Andrea: I’d urge them to speak with an experienced attorney as soon as possible. There are often time limits for filing claims, but many states have extended these deadlines for childhood sexual abuse cases. An attorney can help navigate the legal process, protect the victim’s rights, and work to hold all responsible parties accountable.
Reach Out for Support and Guidance
If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual abuse, it’s important to seek help. Victims and their families deserve support and guidance in navigating the legal process. Our team is here to listen and provide the assistance you need. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your situation and explore your options for pursuing justice and accountability. You are not alone, and we are committed to standing by your side every step of the way.
Source:
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
