Plantation, FL – A 35-year-old teacher from Sawgrass Adventist School has been taken into custody following serious allegations of inappropriate sexual conduct with a 14-year-old student. Candace Allison Brown, a Weston resident, surrendered to authorities at the Broward County Main Jail on Friday, November 22, 2024.
Multiple Child Sexual Abuse Charges Filed Against Private School Teacher
Brown faces several charges, including two counts of lewd and lascivious battery on a minor under 16, as well as charges for lewd and lascivious conduct and the transmission of harmful material to a minor through electronic means. Investigators report that the alleged incidents occurred between June 1 and June 30 in Deerfield Beach, involving sexual contact and explicit video exchanges.
School Responds to Allegations of Teacher Sexual Abuse
Sawgrass Adventist School, which caters to students from kindergarten through eighth grade, has acted swiftly in response to the allegations. Brown, who has been a middle school math and history teacher since 2016, has been removed from her position. Frank Runnels, Vice President of Education for the Florida Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, stated that the school takes such matters seriously and is fully cooperating with law enforcement.
Ongoing Investigation into Accused Adventist Teacher
Brown is currently being held on a $40,000 bond. Authorities believe there may be additional victims and are encouraging anyone with relevant information to reach out to Detective Arielle Dickey or contact Broward Crime Stoppers. The community remains on alert as the investigation unfolds.
Legal Recourse for Survivors of Sexual Abuse in Private Schools
In the aftermath of the disturbing allegations against Candace Allison Brown, a teacher at Sawgrass Adventist School, many parents are grappling with concerns about their children’s safety in educational settings, including private schools. To address the legal aspects of such cases, we spoke with Jen Lipinski, an experienced Florida attorney specializing in sexual abuse cases. Lipinski offers valuable guidance for families navigating the complex terrain of seeking accountability and compensation when a private school teacher is accused of sexually abusing a student. Her insights provide a roadmap for parents looking to protect their children’s rights and hold negligent institutions responsible.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: What legal rights do parents have when their child has been sexually abused by a private school teacher?
Jen Lipinski, Esq.: Parents have several legal avenues to explore. They can pursue criminal charges against the perpetrator, which is already happening in this case. Additionally, they may file a civil lawsuit against the teacher and potentially the school itself.
Banville: How can parents hold the school accountable in these situations?
Lipinski: To hold a school liable, parents must demonstrate that the institution was negligent in its duty to protect students. This could involve proving that the school failed to conduct proper background checks, inadequately supervised staff, or ignored warning signs of inappropriate behavior.
Banville: What specific actions might constitute negligence on the part of the school?
Lipinski: Examples include failing to investigate complaints, not implementing or enforcing proper policies to prevent abuse, and inadequate supervision of students and staff. If a school knew or should have known about potential risks and failed to act, they could be held liable.
Banville: What steps should parents take if they suspect their child has been abused?
Lipinski: First and foremost, ensure the child’s safety and report the abuse to law enforcement. Then, document everything and seek medical and psychological care for the child. It’s also advisable to consult with an experienced attorney who can guide them through the legal process and help protect their rights.
Banville: What kind of compensation might be available in these cases?
Lipinski: Compensation can cover medical expenses, therapy costs, pain and suffering, and in some cases, punitive damages. The goal is to address both the immediate and long-term impacts of the abuse on the child and family.
Empowering Survivors: Your Path to Justice Starts Here
The journey to healing and justice for survivors of sexual abuse can be challenging, but you don’t have to walk it alone. If you or a loved one has experienced sexual abuse in a private school setting, 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 take the first step towards holding those responsible accountable. Don’t let time constraints or uncertainty hold you back – reach out today and let us help you reclaim your power and seek the compensation you deserve. Your voice matters, and we’re here to amplify it.
Source
https://www.cbsnews.com/miami/news/female-teacher-plantation-accused-sexual-acts-14-year-old-boy/
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
