Palm Beach County, FL – Christopher T. Withers, a 32-year-old math teacher at Watson B. Duncan Middle School in Palm Beach County, was arrested on March 31 following allegations of inappropriate sexual conduct with a minor. Authorities began investigating the case on March 25 after receiving a complaint from the victim, who detailed a relationship that started during her time as his seventh-grade student.
Teacher Arrested for Lewd Acts with Minor at Watson B. Duncan Middle School
According to the arrest affidavit, the victim described how their communication began on Snapchat with sexually explicit messages and progressed to physical contact in his classroom when she entered high school. Their encounters extended to secluded locations, including parks and his apartment, where sexual acts occurred between the ages of 14 and 15. The victim also disclosed that Withers recorded one of their encounters on Snapchat.
Investigation Uncovers Disturbing Allegations
After initially denying the allegations, Withers confessed during questioning, admitting to having sex with the victim approximately 10-15 times and corroborating details provided by her. He is currently being held at Palm Beach County Jail on over 16 charges related to lewd and lascivious behavior with a minor.
School Responds to Arrest
Watson B. Duncan Middle School Principal Phillip D’Amico issued a statement confirming that Withers will not return to campus and emphasizing student safety as the school’s top priority. Families were urged to contact authorities if they had additional information regarding the case.
This arrest has sparked widespread concern within the community as investigations continue into the extent of Withers’ actions and any potential institutional failures.
Legal Options for Survivors of Teacher Abuse: Attorney Explains the Path to Accountability
Survivors of sexual abuse by educators often face overwhelming emotional and legal challenges when deciding to come forward. In cases like the recent arrest of Christopher T. Withers, a teacher accused of lewd acts with a minor, understanding the legal options available is a vital step in reclaiming justice. We sat down with Guy D’Andrea, an experienced Pennsylvania child sexual abuse attorney, to discuss how survivors can navigate their rights, hold perpetrators accountable, and seek restitution for the harm they’ve endured.
Laurence Banville: Cases of teacher-student abuse, like the one involving Christopher T. Withers, are deeply troubling. What legal avenues are available for survivors of such abuse?
Guy D’Andrea, Esq.: Survivors of teacher abuse have several legal options at their disposal. They can pursue civil lawsuits against the individual perpetrator for damages related to the trauma they endured. Additionally, if the school or district failed to act on warning signs or allowed a culture of negligence, they too can be held accountable. These cases often involve claims of institutional negligence or failure to protect the student.
Banville: How does Pennsylvania law support survivors in these situations?
D’Andrea: Pennsylvania has made significant strides in supporting survivors by extending the statute of limitations for child sexual abuse cases. Survivors now have longer to file a civil lawsuit and to pursue criminal charges. There’s also a “revival window” being considered that would allow survivors whose claims were previously time-barred to file lawsuits within a specific timeframe. This legal framework gives survivors more time to process their experiences and seek justice when they’re ready.
Banville: What challenges might survivors face when coming forward?
D’Andrea: One of the biggest challenges is the emotional toll of revisiting traumatic events during legal proceedings. Survivors may also encounter skepticism or backlash from their communities, especially if the accused is a trusted figure like a teacher. However, with experienced legal counsel and access to therapeutic resources, these challenges can be mitigated, and survivors can feel empowered throughout the process.
Banville: What advice would you give to someone considering legal action?
D’Andrea: My advice is to consult with an attorney who specializes in sexual abuse cases as soon as possible. A skilled lawyer can guide them through the process, ensure their rights are protected, and connect them with resources for emotional and psychological support. It’s important for survivors to know they don’t have to face this alone—there are people ready to stand by them every step of the way.
Take the First Step Toward Justice Today
If your child has been affected by sexual abuse involving a teacher, you don’t have to face this battle alone. Our experienced legal team is dedicated to helping families navigate these difficult situations with compassion and determination. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation to explore your legal options and begin the process of holding those responsible accountable. Your family’s safety and well-being are our priority, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
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
