Betrayal of Trust

NEWSPAPER INVESTIGATION

"Betrayal of Trust"
Written by: Marisa Schultz
Date: April 24, 2005
Published In: Detroit News

A special Report. Well-written and researched.



Thursday, April 28
Lawmakers want to oust sexually abusive teachers
LANSING -- Lawmakers will work to ensure that teachers convicted of crimes are removed from classrooms, House Speaker Craig DeRoche said Wednesday in response to a Detroit News investigation. 04/28/05

Monday, April 25
Schools, Granholm pledge to curb abuse by teachers
To combat sexual abuse in schools, districts need to develop clear policies -- preferably written -- on inappropriate employee-student relationships, enforce zero tolerance and encourage staff and others to report allegations without fear of retaliation, experts say. 04/25/05

Brandy Baker / The Detroit News
When Southgate Anderson High School teacher Joseph Brickey was sentenced, supporters filled benches on one side, while a smaller crowd sat behind the teen victim.

Sunday, April 24
State fails to stop teacher sex abuse
Students at Warren's McKinley Elementary School didn't think much of the black gym bag their teacher carried -- until federal agents discovered its mesh pocket concealed a video camera. 04/24/05

Part 2: Abuse reports increase
Nationwide, reports of educator abuse are increasing, but it's unclear whether the abuse is more prevalent or whether kids are more willing to come forward. 04/24/05

Transfer didn't stop Warren molester
WARREN -- The school district staff had plenty of warning signs that James Kearly posed a threat to his students. 04/24/05

22 convicted of sexual misconduct, online solicitation
In the past 15 months, at least 35 school employees or those recently employed by schools have been charged or convicted of sexual misconduct involving minors or the mentally impaired. The Detroit News identified these employees through news reports, public records and sources in law enforcement and state government. Twenty-two of the employees have been convicted. They are:
04/24/05

Looking for signs of sexual abuse
Physical signs of sexual abuse may not be obvious. Hints of possible abuse may include... 04/24/05

A Synthesis of Existing Literature

STUDY

Title: Educator Sexual Misconduct: A Synthesis of Existing Literature
Author: Charol Shakeshaft, Hofstra University and Interactive, Inc., Huntington, N.Y.
Date: 2004

This report was prepared for the U.S. Department of Education.

Shakeshaft examines and critiques a number of studies. Excellent resource.