Landmark Settlement in Montgomery County: Damascus Assault Victims Awarded $9.7 Million

In a significant development, the Montgomery County school system has agreed to a $9.7 million settlement to resolve lawsuits brought by the families of four former Damascus High School football players. These young men were the victims of sexual assault by their teammates wielding broomsticks in a locker room, a harrowing incident that took place in 2018 and 2017. The settlement signifies an important step towards justice and acknowledgment of the negligence that allowed these assaults to occur.

The Unthinkable Incidents

In a shocking revelation, the families of the victims had claimed that the schools ignored the looming threats and failed to protect their children. Instead, they alleged, Damascus High School prioritized its winning football culture over the safety and well-being of its students. Discipline, locker room supervision, and student safety were allegedly sacrificed in the pursuit of athletic success.

The Fallout

The fallout from these incidents was severe. The assaults in the junior varsity locker room in 2018 resulted in criminal cases against four of the perpetrators, who were charged with rape and attempted rape under Maryland law. The victims not only had to endure the physical and emotional trauma but also navigate the criminal justice system.

The Legal Battle

This legal battle was not without its challenges. Lawyers for the school system initially defended these lawsuits vigorously. However, they faced the prospect of the cases going to a jury trial in U.S. District Court in Greenbelt. In a significant decision, U.S. District Judge Peter Messitte ruled that most of the claims could proceed to trial, acknowledging that the families’ attorneys had provided reasonable evidence to support their allegations. He noted, “Plaintiffs have put forward evidence that a reasonable jury could conclude that reckless or callous indifference occurred here.”

The Emotional Toll

Behind the legal proceedings lies the profound emotional turmoil faced by the survivors and their families. These young men had to grapple not only with the physical consequences of the assaults but also with the feeling that their cries for help had fallen on deaf ears. The duration of the litigation was a challenge for all involved. While nothing can undo the events and failures of the past, this settlement allows the survivors to begin the process of healing and moving forward.

The School System’s Response

Montgomery County Public Schools expressed its understanding of the importance of maintaining safe schools. They acknowledged the need for increased monitoring and oversight of locker rooms to prevent such incidents from happening in the future. The settlement reflects a commitment to creating a secure environment where every student feels safe and respected.

Conclusion

The courage of these young men and their families in seeking justice serves as a reminder that individuals should never hesitate to speak out against injustice. We hope that this settlement will encourage others to seek support, guidance, and justice if they have experienced traumatic incidents.

Source: Montgomery to pay $9.7 million to settle Damascus sex assault claims | The Washington Post