News Summary

Parents of a former student have filed a lawsuit against Central Catholic High School in San Antonio, alleging serious issues of hazing, bullying, and sexual assault involving the school’s soccer team. The lawsuit highlights claims that the school failed to safeguard its students, leading to severe harassment and abuse. These troubling claims have prompted an independent investigation and disciplinary actions against several students. As the case unfolds, concerns about the school’s culture and protective measures for students are at the forefront.

San Antonio Parents Take Action Against Central Catholic High School Over Serious Allegations

In a shocking development in San Antonio, the parents of a former soccer player have initiated a lawsuit against Central Catholic High School. This lawsuit is raising eyebrows and shining a spotlight on serious allegations of hazing and sexual assault reportedly taking place within the ranks of the school’s soccer team.

Claims Made in the Lawsuit

The lawsuit argues that Central Catholic High School had the responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of its students. Allegations mentioned in the suit point to a failure on the school’s part to safeguard students from harassment, bullying, battery, unlawful detainment, and even sexual assault.

The plaintiff’s son, who is only 15 years old and a freshman at the school, claims to have faced relentless bullying and sexual harassment at the hands of older teammates. The lawsuit outlines horrifying incidents, including being thrown into a locker, locked in a cage, and subjected to sexual harassment that involved indecent exposure. Each of these actions is incredibly alarming and paints a picture of a toxic environment.

Cultural Concerns at Central Catholic

The lawsuit describes a troubling atmosphere within Central Catholic High School, alleging it facilitated a culture characterized as hazing on steroids. This indicates a systemic issue involving severe mental and sexual abuse that went unchecked for an extended period.

Several prominent figures at the school have been named as defendants in the case, including Principal Lee Hernandez, Athletic Director Edward Ybarra, and Head Soccer Coach Bartholomew Valeria, along with three minor student athletes. The lawsuit asserts that these individuals had either knowledge or should have been aware of the abusive incidences but failed to act on them or report them appropriately.

Legal Actions and School’s Response

The parents are now seeking a minimum of $1 million in damages, which they claim covers pain, suffering, mental anguish, and medical expenses resulting from the traumatic experiences their son endured.

In a troubling twist, the teenager’s father claims that his son faced threats and intimidation from other students for considering reporting the bullying incidents. This atmosphere of fear is particularly concerning, as it suggests a cycle of silence and neglect that may have allowed this behavior to persist.

In an attempt to address the allegations, Central Catholic High School expelled two students and took disciplinary action against three others. Additionally, the school has enlisted a law firm to conduct an independent investigation into the reported sexual misconduct.

Ongoing Investigations

Compounding the seriousness of these claims, two police departments are currently looking into the allegations made by the former student, potentially leading to greater consequences for those involved.

A Pattern of Neglect?

This lawsuit isn’t the first time Central Catholic High School has faced scrutiny over claims of bullying and hazing. The lawsuit suggests there is a pattern of neglect regarding similar complaints made about other school programs, including the lacrosse team and even the JROTC. Such persistent allegations raise questions about the overall culture at the school and the measures in place to protect students.

Prestigious School Under Fire

Founded in 1852, Central Catholic High School has long enjoyed a reputation for academic excellence among San Antonio families. However, these serious allegations threaten to tarnish its esteemed image as parents, students, and the broader community await the outcomes of both the lawsuit and the ongoing investigations.

As this story develops, many will be watching closely to see how Central Catholic High School responds to these troubling claims and what measures will be taken to ensure the safety of its students moving forward.

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