West Los Angeles, CA – A former guidance counselor at YULA High School in West Los Angeles has been arrested on charges of sexually abusing a 16-year-old male student. The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) announced the arrest of 37-year-old Julie Tichon, expressing concerns that there may be additional victims.
Details of the Allegations of Sexual Misconduct by Jewish School Counselor
Tichon is accused of engaging in a series of sexual assaults against the teen earlier this year while employed as a counselor at YULA High School, a modern Orthodox Jewish yeshiva high school. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office has filed three counts of unlawful sexual intercourse with a minor and one count of oral copulation of a person under 18 against Tichon.
Police Seek Additional Victims of Accused Counselor
LAPD Detective Russ Hess stated, “The suspect used her position of responsibility to gain these victims’ trust, then began inappropriate sexual relationships with them. Rather than advising them, she was abusing them”12. The police are actively seeking information about potential additional victims and witnesses.
Legal Proceedings and Potential Consequences Following Allegations of Child Sexual Abuse
Tichon has pleaded not guilty to the charges and was released on her own recognizance. She is scheduled to appear in court on November 114. If convicted on all charges, Tichon faces up to five years in state prison.
School’s Response to Counselor’s Arrest and Sexual Abuse Charges
YULA High School, where Tichon worked for approximately four years, has not immediately responded to requests for comment1. However, a May 28 email from Rabbi Arye Sufrin, the school’s head, to parents reportedly acknowledged allegations of “an inappropriate relationship of a sexual nature” between a female staff member and two male students.
Ongoing Investigation Amid Child Sex Abuse Allegations at Jewish High School
The LAPD is continuing its investigation and urges anyone with information related to the case to come forward. This case highlights the serious nature of sexual abuse allegations in educational settings and the importance of protecting students from such misconduct.
Legal Implications of School Counselor Sexual Abuse Cases
The recent charges against Julie Tichon, a Southern California high school guidance counselor accused of having a sexual relationship with a minor student, have raised significant questions about legal accountability and victim rights. To better understand the complexities surrounding such cases, we spoke with Jason Amala, a seasoned California attorney specializing in sexual abuse law. In this interview, Jason Amala offers valuable information on the legal options available to victims, the potential liability of educational institutions, and the current state of California’s statute of limitations for sexual abuse cases. His insights provide a clearer picture of the legal landscape for those affected by such incidents and highlight the importance of understanding one’s rights in these sensitive situations.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: Mr. Amala, what legal options are available for victims and their families in cases like this?
Jason Amala, Esq.: Victims of sexual abuse by school employees have several potential avenues for legal action. They may file criminal charges against the perpetrator, as we’ve seen in this case. Additionally, civil lawsuits can be brought against the individual and potentially the school district if negligence can be proven.
Banville: How can schools be held accountable in these situations?
Amala: Schools have a duty to protect students. If it can be shown that the school failed to properly screen employees, ignored warning signs, or didn’t respond appropriately to reports of misconduct, they could be held liable. This often involves a thorough investigation into the school’s policies and practices.
Banville: What about the statute of limitations for these cases in California?
Amala: California has recently extended the statute of limitations for childhood sexual abuse cases. Victims now have longer after the abuse to file civil claims. For criminal cases, there’s often no statute of limitations for serious sexual offenses against minors.
Banville: Any advice for victims considering coming forward?
Amala: I would urge any victims to speak with a qualified attorney who can explain their rights and options. It’s also important to report abuse to law enforcement. There are many support services available, and victims should know they’re not alone in this process.
Support for Victims and Their Families
If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual abuse, it’s important to seek help and understand your rights. Victims and their families are encouraged to reach out for support. Our legal team offers free consultations to discuss your situation and explore your options. You don’t have to face this alone—contact us today to take the first step toward justice and healing.
Source:
https://nypost.com/2024/09/25/us-news/high-school-counselor-accused-of-sexually-abusing-students/
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
