Durham After-School Program Worker, Oscar D. Reyes, Facing Multiple Charges Including Child Sexual Battery

Durham, NC – In a shocking turn of events, the Durham Police Department has charged a man who worked with an after-school program with multiple child sex crimes. Oscar D. Reyes, a former employee of Central Park School for Children (CPSC) located at 724 Foster St, Durham, NC 27701, was arrested on Saturday, Jan. 27, 2024, following an investigation that began on Nov. 3, 2023.

Allegations of Multiple Child Sex Crimes at Charter School

Reyes worked part-time with CPSC during the 2022-2023 school year and was involved in the after-school program. The school administration took immediate action upon learning about the allegations in November and terminated Reyes’ employment. CPSC expressed its commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its students.

Importance of Communication and Warning Signs of Child Sexual Abuse

Cristin Deronja, Executive Director of Safechild, emphasized the importance of ongoing conversations between parents, caregivers, and children. Deronja urged kids to feel safe speaking up and parents to be aware of their child’s warning signs, such as expressing discomfort around a person or place or exhibiting an unusual desire to spend excessive time with someone.

Deronja also stressed the significance of parents familiarizing themselves with the school’s supervision policies. Understanding the protocols in place can help parents ensure their child’s safety while attending educational institutions.

School Employee Arrested for Sexual Assault on Child Under 12

Following his arrest, Reyes, aged 20, was booked in the Wake County Jail on a $10,000 secured bond. He now faces multiple charges related to child sex crimes, including indecent liberties with a student, sexual battery, assault on a child under 12, and misdemeanor child abuse.

Charter School’s Action Following Sex Crimes Charges

Biana Starner, a parent with two children attending CPSC, expressed initial shock upon learning about the situation. However, Starner commended the school’s handling of the matter, stating, “I’m really proud of how the school handled it.” The school promptly removed Reyes from campus pending the completion of the Durham police investigation. Executive Director Arlie Harris confirmed that the investigation is now complete and that Reyes has been arrested and charged. Furthermore, CPSC has terminated Reyes’ employment.

Communication with Families After School Employee Arrested For Child Sex Abuse

Following the accusations, CPSC sent a letter to its families to inform them about the situation. The school assured parents that the employee in question had been removed from campus during the police investigation. With the investigation now concluded and the arrest made, CPSC is taking appropriate measures to address the situation and ensure the safety of its students.

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and open lines of communication between parents, children, and educational institutions to safeguard the well-being of students.

Legal Insights: Pursuing Civil Cases in Child Sex Abuse Incidents at Charter Schools

In the wake of recent child sex abuse charges against a former employee of Central Park School for Children, questions arise regarding the legal avenues available to victims and their families in sexual abuse cases involving charter schools. To further detail this complex issue, we sat down with Attorney Kristen Beightol, Esq., an experienced North Carolina-based sexual abuse lawyer. Join us as Attorney Beightol shares her insights into pursuing civil cases against liable parties, including charter schools, and provides guidance to victims and their families seeking justice in the aftermath of such traumatic incidents.

Attorney Laurence Banville (LB): Welcome, Kristen!

Attorney Kristen Beightol (KB): Thank you, Laurence. It’s a pleasure to be here and discuss such an important topic.

LB: Absolutely. In light of the recent incident at Central Park School for Children, many families may be wondering about their legal options in such an event. Kristen, could you explain what school sex abuse victims and their families can do from a civil standpoint in cases like these, especially involving charter schools?

KB: Certainly, Laurence. When it comes to child sex abuse cases, victims and their families have the option to pursue civil action against liable parties, which can include charter schools. The first step is to consult with an experienced child abuse attorney who specializes in sexual abuse cases. They can guide the family through the legal process and help them understand their rights and options.

LB: That’s crucial information. Can you elaborate on the types of liable parties that could be pursued in such cases?

KB: Absolutely. In cases involving schools, potential liable parties may include the school administration, supervisors, or any individuals who were aware or should have been aware of the abuse and failed to take appropriate action. It’s important to thoroughly investigate the circumstances and identify all parties who may bear responsibility for the abuse.

LB: And what are the potential outcomes of pursuing a civil case?

KB: Pursuing a civil case can provide victims and their families with a sense of justice and closure. Successful outcomes can result in financial compensation that can help cover medical expenses, therapy costs, and other damages suffered due to the abuse. Additionally, holding liable parties accountable through civil action can contribute to preventing similar incidents from happening in the future.

LB: Thank you, Kristen, for shedding light on this important matter.

KB: Absolutely, Laurence. Victims and their families deserve justice, and it’s important to remember that they are not alone. Seeking legal support can empower them to take action and protect their rights.

Free Consultations for Charter School Sexual Abuse Survivors

If you or someone you know has been a victim of child sex abuse at a school, it is vital to seek professional legal guidance to understand your rights and explore your options. Our team of experienced attorneys is here to support you through this difficult time. We offer free consultations to discuss your case and provide personalized advice tailored to your situation. Remember, you do not have to face this journey alone. Contact us today to schedule your confidential consultation and take the first step towards seeking justice and healing.