Former student sues McDonogh School over sexual abuse by former dean of students

A Former Student Files Lawsuit Alleging Sexual Abuse at McDonogh School

A former student has filed a civil lawsuit against the McDonogh School, accusing a former dean of students of sexual abuse. The plaintiff, Dennis Wedekind of Delta, Pa., claims that he was abused by former Dean of Students Alvin Joseph Levy between 1980 and 1984. The lawsuit was filed in the United States District Court of Maryland.

Seeking Accountability and Justice

Attorney Ari Casper, representing the plaintiff, stated that Mr. Wedekind suffered significant harm and abuse during his time at McDonogh School. Casper emphasized that this lawsuit aims to hold the school accountable for its actions. The damages sought exceed $75,000, making the case eligible for federal court jurisdiction.

Statute of Limitations and the Maryland Child Victim Act

Casper also highlighted that the lawsuit falls within the statute of limitations set by the Maryland Child Victim Act. This act, enacted in April, removed the previous time limit for individuals who were sexually abused as children to sue both the perpetrators and the institutions that enabled the abuse. Currently, there are ongoing appeals of lawsuits under this act in Maryland courts. Last month, a federal judge in Prince George’s County sought clarification from the state Supreme Court regarding the interpretation of the law.

Past Investigations and Allegations

In 2019, the McDonogh School released the findings of an investigation conducted by New York-based firm T&M Protection Resources. The investigation revealed that five former faculty members allegedly sexually assaulted approximately two dozen students between the 1940s and the mid-1980s. It was also discovered that some of these allegations were reported to the school at the time but were not appropriately addressed by previous administrators and board members.

Knowledge of Abuse

The lawsuit claims that the school’s administration and board were aware of Levy’s abusive behavior towards students for decades prior to the plaintiff’s enrollment in 1980. The investigation conducted by T&M Protection Resources found that Levy, along with another faculty member named Robert Creed, engaged in sexual misconduct with 19 male students over a span of four decades.

Legal Proceedings and Levy’s Indictment

In 1992, Levy was indicted by a Baltimore County grand jury on sexual abuse charges following allegations made by another former student. However, he passed away before his scheduled court date. The charges against him included child abuse, second- and third-degree sexual offenses, perverted sexual practice, and assault and battery. Charging documents revealed that police had recorded a conversation in which Levy allegedly made incriminating statements about the incidents. Levy’s attorney at the time confirmed that he would not contest the charges.

Abuse and Violation of Bodily Integrity

The lawsuit describes Dean Levy’s actions as sexually assaulting the plaintiff and violating his bodily integrity. It alleges that Levy engaged in predatory sexual assaults, attempted assaults, and other inappropriate behavior in various locations within the school facilities, including the Dean of Students office and the plaintiff’s dorm room.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. SDG 4: Quality Education

   • Target 4.7: By 2030, ensure that all learners acquire the knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development, including, among others, through education for sustainable development and sustainable lifestyles.
   • Indicator: The article mentions that the former student suffered harm and abuse while attending McDonogh School, indicating a failure in providing a safe and supportive learning environment.

2. SDG 5: Gender Equality

   • Target 5.2: Eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in the public and private spheres, including trafficking and sexual and other types of exploitation.
   • Indicator: The article discusses allegations of sexual abuse by a former dean of students, highlighting the issue of gender-based violence within the school.

3. SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions

   • Target 16.2: End abuse, exploitation, trafficking, and all forms of violence against and torture of children.
   • Indicator: The article mentions the Maryland Child Victim Act, which abolished the time limit for people sexually abused as children to sue the perpetrators and institutions. This indicates efforts towards addressing child abuse and ensuring justice for victims.

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.

Source: baltimoresun.com

Join us, as fellow seekers of change, on a transformative journey at https://sdgtalks.ai/welcome, where you can become a member and actively contribute to shaping a brighter future.