Alleged Sexual Assault of Students by Substitute Teacher
Alleged sexual assault of four elementary school students by substitute teacher. A substitute teacher in Santa Ana, California was arrested on May 6 for the alleged sexual assault of four of his elementary school students. According to police, 69-year-old Peter Morales inappropriately touched the students multiple times over a period of several months.
Peter Morales has been employed by the Santa Ana Unified School District since 2004 and was posted as a substitute teacher at Adams Elementary in Santa Ana, California when the allegations were made.
School officials say they are “shocked and deeply saddened” by the allegations against Morales and are cooperating with law enforcement in their investigation.
Morales is currently being held on a $100,000 bail.
Police are investigating if there were any other victims, and are urging other victims, if there are, to come forward and speak up.
Individuals wanting to learn more about their legal options after a child sexual abuse incident can call on the California child sex abuse attorney at Beck Law P.C.
How Could This Alleged Sexual Assault Happen in a School?
How could this happen in a school? This is a question that’s been asked by many parents and teachers in the wake of the news that Santa Ana substitute teacher Peter Morales had been arrested for alleged sexual assault of students. According to the reports, Morales inappropriately touched not just students – but minors.
This is certainly not the first time that a teacher has been accused of having inappropriate contact with students. However, it’s still shocking when these incidents occur in what are supposed to be safe environments, like schools. Unfortunately, it seems as if inappropriate behavior by educators is becoming increasingly common.
In light of this latest news, it’s important for parents to be vigilant about who their children are interacting with at school. It is also important for parents to be best friends with their kids, so they will be more willing and open to telling you about any warning signs they may encounter.
How Can We Protect Our Kids From Teacher or Guardian Sexual Assault in School?
There are ways to help protect your child from being molested by a teacher or guardian in school. One way is to be aware of the signs of sexual abuse. According to the National Child Abuse and Neglect Data System (NCANDS), some signs that a child has been sexually abused include:
i.) Unexplained changes in behavior, such as becoming withdrawn or aggressive
ii.) Depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder
iii.) Inappropriate sexual knowledge or behavior
iv.) Self-harming behaviors
v.) Eating disorders
vi.) Difficulty sleeping or nightmares
vii.) Sudden changes in school performance
If you suspect an alleged sexual assault of your child, it is important to talk to them about it. Let them know that they can tell you anything and that you will believe them. It is also important to call the police and to seek help from an attorney.
Beck Law P.C.
As you can see, sexual assault, abuse or misconduct may be perpetrated by a teacher, guardian, or other adult entrusted with the care of a minor. In California, victims of teacher or guardian molestation may be able to file a civil lawsuit against the abuser. If you or someone you know has been affected by this type of abuse, it is important to connect with an attorney at Beck Law P.C. who can help you explore your legal options.
Contact the California child sex abuse law firm, Beck Law P.C. today to get started.
