When it comes to allegations of sexual abuse in a school setting, local law enforcement and the Connecticut Department of Children and Families (DCF) often handle these investigations simultaneously.
If you are facing such allegations, the impact on your life and career can be both tremendous and immediate. You have the right to defend yourself, and you never have to take on this challenge alone. Let a dedicated DCF investigation attorney from the Law Offices of Mark Sherman advise you on Greenwich school principals in DCF investigations.
When DCF investigates Greenwich school principals, its agents can review allegations or incidents that have occurred at any point. Investigators can review even decades-old reports of abuse, potentially leading to notable consequences.
While there is no limit on how old allegations can be, there are time restraints for how quickly DCF must act. In most situations, DCF must come to a final decision concerning their investigation—either by dismissing or substantiating the claims—within 45 days. When it comes to school principals, however, this deadline is shorter and DCF is required to reach a decision within 33 business days from the start of their investigation.
If DCF determines the allegations against a Greenwich school principal are true, the claims are considered substantiated. This usually means the state officials notify law enforcement to review for potential criminal charges against the principal, if such charges have not already been filed.
Additionally, investigators must notify the principal’s employer within five business days of the outcome, though they typically do so immediately. The school is then required to suspend the principal with pay during the pendency of any appeals. It is also possible for the Board of Education to revoke a teaching certification at that time.
The unfortunate reality is that the investigation record can remain in place even in situations where the allegations are investigated and dismissed by the authorities. The accused person is likely to have notations in their employment file for the rest of their career, even if they are ultimately cleared of any wrongdoing.
As frustrating as this can be, these consequences are relatively minor compared to principals with substantiated allegations against them. An unfavorable outcome can not only cost someone their career, but it could also be the first step towards criminal prosecution. Given the seriousness of these potential outcomes, it is critical to find legal counsel to serve as an advocate immediately after being notified of an investigation.
It is possible for a school administrator to appeal a negative outcome following a Greenwich DCF investigation. In fact, the state faces a higher burden of proof on the appellate level than they do when making the initial decision. This improves the chances of an administrator obtaining a favorable outcome on appeal.
To initiate an appeal, a principal must request an internal review within 30 days of being notified of substantiated allegations. During this internal review, DCF will determine if there was adequate evidence to show the accusations were true. If this review is unsuccessful, there is the option for an administrative hearing.
If you have been accused of abusing a child, it can have damaging consequences for your career. Greenwich school principals in DCF investigations are under scrutiny, so it is critical that you seek legal help to protect your rights. Call Mark Sherman Law to discuss your options during a confidential consultation, and read some of the 300+ certified reviews from satisfied past clients on our Avvo.com profile by clicking here.
