Teh One Who Knocks
09-17-2015, 10:58 AM
The Associated Press
SAN FRANCISCO – A state appeals court says the Los Angeles school district was wrong when it argued that a 14-year-old girl shared responsibility for a sexual relationship with a teacher because she consented to the sex.
A division of the 2nd District Court of Appeal said Wednesday the girl as a minor was a crime victim even if she agreed to the sex, and crime victims cannot be held responsible for the harm they suffer.
It overturned a jury verdict in favor of the district and ordered a new trial. The girl had sued the district.
The district did not immediately have comment.
Lawyers and advocates for sexual abuse victims have said the legal tactic used by the district was surprising.
SAN FRANCISCO – A state appeals court says the Los Angeles school district was wrong when it argued that a 14-year-old girl shared responsibility for a sexual relationship with a teacher because she consented to the sex.
A division of the 2nd District Court of Appeal said Wednesday the girl as a minor was a crime victim even if she agreed to the sex, and crime victims cannot be held responsible for the harm they suffer.
It overturned a jury verdict in favor of the district and ordered a new trial. The girl had sued the district.
The district did not immediately have comment.
Lawyers and advocates for sexual abuse victims have said the legal tactic used by the district was surprising.