The resolution underscores the importance of vigilance and responsiveness in safeguarding children within schools.
CAMDEN, NJ, June 18, 2024 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Following a significant legal battle, the Camden City School District and its Advisory Board President, Wasim Muhammad, have agreed to pay a settlement of $2 million following a two week trial last month in a child sexual abuse case. The settlement comes in the wake of a jury's decision on May 14th, after a two-week trial, which initially awarded $1.6 million to the plaintiff, identified as Jane Doe. Today's agreement preempts further proceedings regarding punitive damages which were scheduled to start today before Superior Court Judge John S. Kennedy.
During the trial, the victim presented evidence that as a former student at Cooper B. Hatch Middle School and Camden High, she was groomed and sexually assaulted starting in 1991 by her seventh-grade history teacher, then known as Don Walker (now identified as Wasim Muhammad). Shockingly, it was revealed that a school district employee had witnessed Walker and Doe leaving his residence during school hours but failed to report her suspicions to school authorities or child protective services. Additionally, the plaintiff testified that school officials were aware of other warning signs but failed to act, resulting in her prolonged abuse.
Despite mounting public outcry by community activists and calls for his resignation by Governor Murphy, Wasim Muhammad remains in his position as President of the Advisory School Board.
Cherry Hill attorney Jeffrey Fritz, of Soloff & Zervanos, represents Jane Doe. Fritz stated, "We express gratitude to the jury for their service, and I am relieved that my client can focus on her healing journey. However, true healing cannot occur as long as Mr. Muhammad remains the Camden City School District Advisory Board President and the District does not reexamine its policies and training. His continued presence is a reminder of institutional failure and the urgent need for accountability."
Ms. Doe stated: "My only hope now is that the school district takes steps to make sure that no other student faces the horrendous victimization I endured at the hands of a teacher. Camden students and parents deserve safe, accountable schools."
The resolution underscores the importance of vigilance and responsiveness in safeguarding children within schools.
This press release is issued in compliance with the recent settlement agreement and aims to inform the public and stakeholders about the conclusion of this case and its implications for the Camden City School District.
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