Nervous About Action

Nervous About Action
J

Josh1

Registrant
Although fired (technically his contract was not renewed) at my old high school, my perp got a job at another private NYC high school quite some time ago. Until now, I had not been ready to take action. But two weeks ago I called the principal while I was visiting NY for a week and told her I wanted a meeting to discuss a teacher. But I wouldn't give specifics, and she wouldn't give me her time in person on such short notice without specifics. I have been playing phone tag with her since last week.

Because the S.O.L expired for me both civilly and criminally, I don't really have any legal recourse which is why I am calling her directly, but a number of people have warned me that I am opening myself up to some kind of defamation of character/libel suit. I really just don't want him around young people anymore, and I'm tired of waiting around, I've allowed him to keep perping long enough.

But I'm also scared, somewhat because I won't be believed, somewhat because even if I am believed nothing will be done, and somewhat because perp may try to get back at me by suing.

I have also been in contact with a number of agencies and people, but no one is giving me any solid advice. My gut tells me to tell the new principal all the details and let things happen as they may, but nonetheless this feels like a tremendously hard step for me.

Josh
 
Josh,

If the statute of limitations has expired for you, then yes, you are in dangerous waters. The perp COULD sue you for defamation or libel, because your action against him occurred so recently.

One thing to remember is that the law isn't about truth - it's about rules and statutes that define the truth in a certain way. If a ruling goes against you it doesn't mean you were disbelieved. But it would still be an enormous shock and possibly quite harmful.

Do you have a T? If not I would suggest exploring this option. Even if you should eventually achieve a victory here the emotional cost for you could be enormous.

Much love,
Larry
 
Well. After I wrote that post, the new principal finally called me back, and I went for it. I can't remember the last time my hands were shaking so bad, but I did it. I gave names and details and did it. I was so nervous before and during but feel like the biggest weight has been lifted. She'll get back to me next week. Of course, she had not known any of this before. Unbelievable that even now in 2006 communication is so bad between and inside of schools.

Josh
 
Yes. Have been in therapy for almost 6 years. I appreciate the concern, but I have gotten to a place in my life where I can handle what comes. I was not in this place, even a year ago. But the support of a lot of love ones and people on this site has been a tremendous factor in allowing me to do what's right.

Josh
 
Josh,

Are you taking legal advice? I am just thinking of several guys here who got badly burned by tricky lawyers working to protect perps.

Much love,
Larry
 
Back when I was about to turn 21 (I'm almost 26 now), I had a lawyer who rushed to file papers because he thought I'd get a quick settlement. He also advised me strongly against criminal action. The school's insurance company got involved and started dragging the thing out. My lawyer was charging a retainer and was proud that my perp had gotten fired, even though the way in which it happened allowed everything to remain hushed so that I am in the situation I find myself with the perp teaching at another school. I have been advised that I might be at risk of being sued for defamation and/or libel. No one has disagreed with that. But no one has given me a suitable alternative action than honestly talking to the new school's principal.

SO it's possible that I'm setting myself up for unpleasantness. At the same time, I am in the right, I am being honest, and I have a lot of people behind me who support me.

Every day I let pass not telling people who need to know is another day that I feel frightened and further victimized.

All of that said, I am very curious to know more about the guys who got tricked and their experience. Perhaps it could help me navigate what's going on. Perhaps, Larry, or anyone else could you get me in contact with someone so we can share experiences?

Thanks,

Josh
 
Josh - at the very least now that the Principal has spoken to you, she can at least watch out for any likelihood of unsavoury activities.

Best wishes ...Rik
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top