Newark, DE – A Christina School District teacher has been arrested and charged with multiple felonies related to alleged sexual misconduct with a 13-year-old student. The case has taken an unexpected turn as it was revealed that the teacher, David L. Di Filippo, had been working at George V. Kirk Middle School with an expired teaching license.
Expired License and Alleged Misconduct
According to a Delaware Department of Education database, Di Filippo’s teaching license expired in November 2021. Despite this, he continued to teach at the middle school, where court records allege he engaged in inappropriate behavior with a student from September 2023 to February 2024. The alleged misconduct included making sexual innuendoes online, touching the girl’s leg in his classroom, and allowing her to hide in his classroom during his planning periods.
District Response to Allegations Against Teacher
A Christina School District spokesperson issued a statement indicating that they are cooperating with law enforcement during the investigation. The district cited privacy regulations as the reason for not discussing personnel matters. They emphasized their commitment to maintaining high standards for educator licensing but did not respond to inquiries about who is responsible for verifying educator licenses within the district.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Di Filippo, who has been a teacher since 2011, faces serious charges including sexual solicitation of a child under 18, enticement for purposes of sexual conduct, dangerous crime against a minor, promoting sexual solicitation of a child under 18, obscenity material provided to a person under 18, and second-degree sexual abuse of a child by a person of trust. Additionally, he faces a misdemeanor charge of offensive touching. Di Filippo has been released from custody after posting $65,500 secured bail.
License Renewal Attempt
State officials reported that Di Filippo had initiated an application to renew his license in August 2021 but never completed the submission process. As this case unfolds, questions arise about the oversight of educator licensing and the measures in place to protect students in the Christina School District.
Legal Recourse for Teacher Sexual Abuse Survivors: An Attorney’s Perspective
The recent arrest of David L. Di Filippo, a Christina School District teacher charged with multiple felonies related to alleged sexual misconduct with a student, has brought the issue of teacher sexual abuse into sharp focus. As communities grapple with the implications of this case, many are left wondering about the legal options available to survivors of such abuse. To address these concerns, we spoke with Aman Sharma, an experienced Delaware sexual assault attorney. In this interview, Sharma offers valuable guidance on the legal pathways open to those who have experienced sexual abuse at the hands of a teacher, discussing everything from criminal proceedings to civil lawsuits against both perpetrators and potentially negligent school districts.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: Mr. Sharma, what legal options are available for students who have been sexually assaulted by a teacher in Delaware?
Aman Sharma, Esq.: Survivors of teacher sexual assault in Delaware have several legal avenues. They can pursue both criminal and civil actions. While the criminal case is handled by prosecutors, survivors can file civil lawsuits against the perpetrator and, in many cases, against the school district that employed them.
Banville: Can you elaborate on the potential for holding schools accountable?
Sharma: Absolutely. Schools have a duty to protect their students. If a school district failed to properly screen staff, ignored warning signs, or didn’t adequately train employees to recognize and report misconduct, they could be held liable. This is particularly relevant in cases like Di Filippo’s, where the teacher was allegedly working with an expired license.
Banville: What about the statute of limitations for these cases?
Sharma: Delaware has made significant strides in this area. Recent legislative reforms have extended the statute of limitations for child sexual abuse cases. This means survivors may have more time to come forward and seek justice, even if the abuse occurred years ago. However, it’s always best to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to understand the specific time limits that apply to your case.
Banville: What advice would you give to survivors or their families who are considering legal action?
Sharma: My primary advice would be to speak with an experienced sexual abuse attorney promptly. These cases are complex and emotionally challenging. A skilled attorney can guide survivors through the legal process, protect their rights, and work to hold all responsible parties accountable. Remember, the initial consultation is typically free and confidential, allowing survivors to understand their options without any obligation.
Empowering Survivors: Your Path to Justice Starts Here
The journey to healing and justice for survivors of teacher sexual abuse can be challenging, but you don’t have to face it alone. If you or a loved one has experienced sexual abuse by a teacher, remember that legal support is available. Our team of compassionate and experienced attorneys is ready to listen, provide guidance, and fight for your rights. We offer free, confidential consultations to help you understand your options and make informed decisions about your case. Don’t let fear or uncertainty hold you back from seeking the justice you deserve. Contact us today, and let us help you take the first step towards reclaiming your power and holding those responsible accountable.
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
