Philadelphia, PA – Percy Fields, a 33-year-old former teacher at Philadelphia’s High School for Girls, has entered a guilty plea to a charge of corruption of a minor. The plea comes after Fields was arrested for attempting to sexually abuse and exploit a 16-year-old student at the school where he was employed.
All Girls’ School Teacher Facing Child Sexual Abuse Charges Takes Plea Deal
As part of a plea agreement, several other charges against Fields were dropped, including attempted sexual abuse of children, unlawful contact with a minor, and related offenses. The guilty plea focuses solely on the corruption of a minor charge.
Details of the Allegations of Sexual Misconduct with Student
Officials report that in January, Fields allegedly used CashApp to send money to an underage student. He then reportedly attempted to solicit explicit photos and sexual relations from the student, offering additional cash in exchange.
Discovery and Reporting Teacher’s Inappropriate Conduct with Student
The situation came to light when another student became aware of the inappropriate behavior and informed a school counselor. The counselor promptly reported the incident to the Philadelphia Police Special Victims Unit, leading to an investigation.
School District Response to Teacher Accused of Child Sexual Exploitation
Monique Braxton, a spokesperson for the school district, stated in a January press conference that Fields was immediately removed from the school premises once officials were made aware of the incident. This swift action demonstrates the district’s commitment to student safety and proper handling of such serious allegations.
Child Sex Abuse Attorney Discusses Victims’ Rights in Teacher Sexual Abuse Cases
The recent guilty plea of former Philadelphia teacher Percy Fields has brought renewed attention to the issue of sexual abuse in educational settings. As communities grapple with the aftermath of such cases, questions arise about the legal rights of victims and the responsibilities of schools. To address these concerns, we spoke with Guy D’Andrea, a seasoned Pennsylvania sexual abuse lawyer. In this interview, D’Andrea offers valuable information on the legal options available to students who have experienced sexual assault by teachers and explains how negligent schools can be held accountable. His insights provide a roadmap for victims and their families seeking to navigate the complex legal landscape surrounding these sensitive cases.
Laurence Banville, Esq.:Â What legal options are available for students who have been sexually assaulted by a teacher?
Guy D’Andrea, Esq.: Victims have the right to pursue civil lawsuits against both the perpetrator and the school district. These cases can seek compensation for emotional trauma, therapy costs, and other damages resulting from the abuse.
Banville: How can schools be held accountable in these situations?
D’Andrea: Schools can be held liable if they failed to properly screen employees, ignored warning signs, or didn’t follow mandated reporting laws. Negligent hiring, supervision, or retention of staff members who pose a risk to students are common grounds for legal action against educational institutions.
Banville: What advice would you give to victims or their families in cases like this?
D’Andrea: I strongly recommend contacting an experienced sexual abuse attorney as soon as possible. These cases often have strict time limits, and early action helps preserve evidence. An attorney can guide victims through the legal process, protect their rights, and work to hold all responsible parties accountable.
Take Action: Your Rights Matter
If you or a loved one has been affected by teacher sexual abuse, remember that you have legal options. The aftermath of such incidents can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. Our network of experienced attorneys is ready to provide guidance and support through this challenging time. We offer free consultations to help you understand your rights and the potential for legal action. Don’t let uncertainty hold you back from seeking justice and compensation. Contact us today to speak with a knowledgeable lawyer who can evaluate your case and help you determine the best path forward. Your voice deserves to be heard, and we’re here to ensure it is.
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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
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