Sexual Relationship With Student – La Mesa Math Teacher Arrested
The San Diego County District Attorney has filed a criminal complaint against a La Mesa math teacher for allegedly having a sexual relationship with a student. Michael Davis, 34, taught at the Learning Choice Academy and is now facing several felony charges for his misconduct with a 17-year-old female student. The alleged unlawful relationship was reported to have taken place from February through March.
Victims of child sexual abuse may be able to file a claim for financial compensation. If you would like more information on your legal options and rights to compensation, you may contact our California child sexual abuse attorney at Beck Law P.C.
Michael Davis Charged With Felonies – Sexual Relationship With Student
Michael Davis is facing 12 felony charges. Among them are counts of oral sex, contacting a minor with the intent to have sex, and sexual intercourse with a minor. He pleaded not guilty to all of the charges against him and was given a $50,000 bail. Along with bail, it was ordered that Davis may not contact the alleged victim, and he must wear a GPS monitor.
Michael Davis’ attorney asserts that the alleged sexual relationship was consensual. However, consent is not something that can be used as a defense strategy since the relationship occurred with a minor. The legal age of consent in California is 18. Anyone who is not 18 years and older may not legally consent to sexual activity, and an adult who engages in such unlawful behavior with a minor can be held criminally liable. Additionally, civil penalties in the form of financial compensation may also be imposed against an adult who was sexually active with a minor.
A child sexual abuse claim in California can account for the following damages:
- Psychological and emotional harm
- Diminished quality of life
- Pain and suffering
- Medical expenses related to the sexual abuse
- Counseling
- Punitive damages
The Learning Choice Academy’s Response
In response to the allegations against Michael Davis, the Learning Choice Academy’s spokesperson released a statement. They remain adamant that they did not have any prior knowledge or suspicion of a sexual relationship with student, inappropriate relationship or any complaints about Davis. According to the Learning Choice Academy, they are committed to student safety and remain fully cooperative with law enforcement. Still, it was reported that the school tried to prevent the media from taking photos on campus after it was made public that Michael Davis was arrested.
Educator and Student Relationships in California
Under California’s laws, it does not matter how old a student is; it is illegal for school employees to have sexual relationships with students. School employees who are guilty of sexual relationships with students can face severe penalties such as time behind bars, having to register as sex offenders, and costly civil suits against them.
Speak to a California Child Sexual Abuse Attorney Today
If you have questions about sexual abuse claims in California, call our California child sexual abuse lawyer at Beck Law P.C. at (707) 576-7175 today to schedule an initial consultation. Our attorney can meet with you, discuss your case, and advise you on your legal options.
Los Angeles – San Francisco – San Diego – Lassen County – Sonoma County – Mendocino County
