A former Lycoming College freshman is suing the school for allegedly fostering an environment that tolerates sexual misconduct against female students. The victim, Jane Doe, claims that a male basketball player and fellow student, known as D.E., sexually assaulted her in his dorm room. Although she reported the incident, Doe claims that the school did not take proper steps to protect her.

In the suit, Doe claims that she received a message from D.E., inviting her to his room to cuddle. Once she was there, D.E started to sexually assault Doe, although she resisted and said “no” multiple times. Doe reported the incident to Kate Hummel, the associate dean of students and the Title IX deputy coordinator. However, she alleges that Hummel discouraged her from filing a police report due to a lack of physical evidence to corroborates her claims.

The college panel launched a Title IX investigation, asked D.E. to move out of the dorms, and issued a no-contact order. Yet, Doe alleges that the administration failed to notify security immediately that D.E. is moving out. He allegedly tried to enter the dorm despite revoking his access card.

D.E was part of two other Title IX cases, one of which he violated. Despite the charges, Lycoming allowed him to stay and play basketball. Doe claims that she is “petrified” of D.E. and now attends another college due to Lycoming's alleged indifference to her allegations.

The Gravity of Title IX Allegations

Title IX protects people from gender and sexual discrimination in educational institutions and programs that receive federal funding. Although not all claims of sexual misconduct are valid, college administrations must investigate the matter and take action to ensure that other students are safe.

While Lycoming College may have mishandled the case, other administrations deal harshly with defendants, even when there is limited evidence to support an alleged victim's claims.

The investigation process involves a panel that examines the allegations and evidence against a defendant. Penalties can range from suspension to expulsion, not to mention the blow to one's reputation and impact on future opportunities. Students allegedly violating Title IX may not receive due process, especially given the stigma and urgency surrounding the case.

If you face sexual misconduct allegations, you must act quickly to defend against baseless or false claims. Your future is at stake, and even if you are not guilty, you may still face discrimination by peers and school staff.

For the best possible outcome, you need a Title IX Attorney with years of experience successfully handling sexual misconduct claims and who knows the administrative process.

How the Lento Law Firm Helps

Attorney Joseph D. Lento understands how college administrations work and how they often don't get the facts straight. With a firm knowledge of the law and an aggressive defense approach that identifies bias, Mr. Lento protects you from unduly harsh repercussions that upend your academic and professional future.

No matter the case's details and the allegations against you, you deserve fair representation by a knowledgeable legal professional. Call the Lento Law Firm today at 888-535-3686 to discuss your Title IX case in confidence.