The family of an 8-year-old girl has taken legal action against Sierra Canyon School in Chatsworth, Los Angeles. They allege that their daughter was sexually assaulted by older students as part of a so-called “Kissing Club.” The lawsuit claims that the school failed in its duty to protect students and did not report the incidents appropriately.
Details of the Allegation
The incident reportedly occurred when the girl was 7 years old, during school hours. According to the family, the assaults took place in the school bathrooms. The lawsuit indicates that older girls pressured younger ones into acts of sexual nature, including kissing.
School’s Response
The family argues that the faculty failed to provide adequate supervision. Furthermore, when the school staff became aware of the allegations and even found video evidence on students’ devices, they did not notify the victim’s parents or law enforcement promptly. This delay is being described as a cover-up and a violation of California’s mandatory reporting laws.
“As a mother, the feeling of being hopeless and not being able to protect my child from this harm that 100% could have been avoided is crushing,” stated the victim’s mother. She emphasized the need for better systems and safeguards to protect children at schools.
The Ringleader and Previous Allegations
The lawsuit mentions that the supposed ringleader of the “Kissing Club” was not expelled from the school, although she no longer attends. This case marks the second lawsuit against Sierra Canyon School, outlining similar allegations of misconduct.
El-Balad has reached out to Sierra Canyon School for a statement regarding the ongoing lawsuit, but no comments have been released to date.
