Chicago, IL – A former Chicago Police Department officer, dismissed for sexual misconduct with a minor and placed on a city do-not-hire list, managed to secure employment with Chicago Public Schools—raising serious questions about district hiring practices and oversight.
CPS Background and Hiring Process Under Scrutiny
Darius Alexander, now 41, was hired as a security guard at Lane Technical High School in Roscoe Village in 2021. This occurred after he submitted more than two dozen applications to CPS over a seven-year period, according to records reviewed by WTTW News. Alexander’s hiring has sparked debate over whether his work history, which reportedly omitted or misrepresented his time with the police, should have triggered alarms for school administrators.
History of Coach’s Sexual Misconduct and Termination in Previous Employment
Alexander joined the Chicago Police Department in 2006. His law enforcement career ended after a 2012 incident in Crystal Lake, where he allegedly requested sexual favors from a 17-year-old girl whose friends had been arrested and whose mother’s car was impounded. The police board case details that Alexander saw the girl’s identification and was informed of her age. He was officially terminated in 2019 and placed on the city’s do-not-hire list.
Altered Applications and Concealed Past
Despite his dismissal and do-not-hire status, Alexander continued applying for CPS positions. Records indicate that in some of his 26 applications, he altered his work history, describing himself as a city call center employee instead of a police officer. A CPS administrative memo notes that Alexander was hired for two private events in 2017 using applications that excluded his police employment.
Administrative Response and Aftermath
Alexander’s CPS employment continued until WTTW News began investigating his background. Only then did school officials review his past, leading to his removal. In 2024, the district scheduled a discharge hearing for Alexander, but he resigned before a decision was made. CPS subsequently placed a do-not-hire designation in his file for falsifying records and hiding his CPD employment.
Additional Roles and Oversight Gaps
CPS confirmed Alexander also served as an assistant girls’ flag football coach at Lane Tech in 2023, working at practices and games with varsity coaches present. However, he did not complete the required training for the coaching role, according to district records.
Understanding Negligent School Lawsuits
When allegations of sexual abuse by a high school coach surface, affected students and families often face confusion and uncertainty about their rights and next steps. To clarify legal options and support available to victims, our team sat down with Illinois sexual abuse lawyer Erv Nevitt. Their discussion addresses common concerns, available legal remedies, and practical advice for those impacted by such serious allegations.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: When a high school employee is accused of sexual abuse, what legal routes are open to affected students and families?
Erv Nevitt, Esq.: Victims have several avenues. Illinois law permits civil lawsuits against the individual, and if the school failed to act on warning signs or neglected background checks, the district itself may be held responsible. Bringing a case forward can help victims recover damages and push for stronger protections.
Banville: What steps should families take if they suspect abuse by a school staff member?
Nevitt: Report concerns immediately to school officials and law enforcement. Document any details, and reach out to a lawyer who understands these sensitive cases. Early action supports both legal claims and the victim’s wellbeing.
Banville: How can schools better safeguard students in the future?
Nevitt: Schools must rigorously vet all employees, maintain open communication with authorities, and ensure staff receive proper training. Transparency in hiring and reporting is vital to student safety.
You Are Not Alone: Help Is Here
If your family has been affected by sexual abuse involving a high school coach, remember that support and experienced legal guidance are available. Taking action can help you protect your rights and begin the process of healing. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your situation and explore the options open to you.
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
