Homestead, FL – A physical education teacher at Hope Academy, a private school in Homestead, has been arrested on charges of lewd and lascivious battery involving a minor. Authorities identified the suspect as 20-year-old Bryant Caniz-Segovia, who allegedly engaged in sexual activity with a 14-year-old student on multiple occasions.
Details of the Allegations of Sexual Misconduct at Private School
According to the arrest report, the victim disclosed that she and Caniz-Segovia had sexual encounters three to four times. Additionally, they reportedly exchanged explicit photographs via social media. Following these revelations, Miami-Dade deputies interviewed Caniz-Segovia, who allegedly made a statement during the interrogation. Specific details of his admission remain redacted in public records.
Homestead Teacher Arrested for Alleged Sexual Misconduct with Student
Caniz-Segovia was taken into custody and is currently being held at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center with a bond set. A judge has ordered him to avoid contact with the victim. Attorney information for Caniz-Segovia was not immediately available.
School Response to PE Teacher Arrested for Lewd Battery with 14-Year-Old Student
Hope Academy issued a brief statement on Instagram addressing the incident, emphasizing its commitment to student safety. The school stated that it reported the matter promptly upon learning of it. This case raises serious concerns about safeguarding measures within educational institutions and underscores the importance of vigilance in protecting students from harm.
Legal Pathways for Survivors of Private School Abuse
Survivors of sexual abuse in educational settings often face overwhelming challenges, both emotionally and legally. When the accused is a private school teacher, questions arise about accountability, institutional responsibility, and the steps survivors can take to seek justice. In this interview, Florida attorney Jen Lipinski shares her perspective on the legal avenues available to survivors and their families, offering clarity on how they can navigate these complex situations while holding perpetrators and institutions accountable.
Laurence Banville: When cases like this arise, involving abuse by a private school teacher, what legal options are available to survivors and their families?
Jen Lipinski, Esq.: Survivors and their families have two primary paths—criminal and civil actions. The criminal process focuses on holding the abuser accountable under the law, while civil lawsuits allow survivors to seek compensation for the harm they’ve endured. In civil cases, families can also hold institutions accountable if negligence played a role in enabling the abuse.
Banville: How might a school be found negligent in such situations?
Lipinski: Schools have an obligation to protect their students. If they fail to conduct proper background checks, ignore warning signs, or lack adequate policies to prevent abuse, they could be held liable. For instance, if there were prior complaints about the teacher that went unaddressed, it could demonstrate negligence on the school’s part.
Banville: What challenges do survivors face when pursuing civil cases?
Lipinski: Survivors often face emotional difficulties in recounting their experiences during legal proceedings. Additionally, institutions may aggressively defend themselves to avoid liability. This is why having a trauma-informed attorney is vital—they can guide survivors through the process while minimizing additional distress.
Banville: What advice would you give families considering legal action?
Lipinski: Act quickly and consult an attorney experienced in abuse cases. Evidence can fade over time, so early action is critical for building a strong case. An attorney can also help navigate the complexities of the legal system and ensure the survivor’s rights are protected throughout the process.
Take the First Step Toward Justice
Families affected by sexual abuse in private schools deserve support and guidance during such difficult times. Legal action can provide a pathway to accountability and healing, but navigating the process requires experienced and compassionate representation. If your child has been harmed by a private school teacher, contact us today for a free consultation. Our team is committed to helping you understand your options and fight for the justice your family deserves.
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
