Anaheim School District Settles Abuse Case
Table of Contents
Case Background
Krystal Slocum attended Savanna High School in Anaheim during the early 2000s. At the time, David Sepe served as a history teacher under the Anaheim Union High School District (AUHSD). Plaintiff alleged that Sepe exploited his role to groom and abuse her while she was a minor. AUHSD employed Sepe, supervised his work, and controlled his access to students. Slocum later filed this action under California Code of Civil Procedure Section 340.1, as amended by Assembly Bill 218, which extended the statute of limitations for survivors of childhood sexual assault.
Cause
Plaintiff claimed Sepe used his authority as a teacher to initiate grooming behaviors that were visible to other staff and students. She alleged he spent excessive time with her during lunch and after school, invited her to his apartment, and sexually assaulted her repeatedly. Teachers observed warning signs, including favoritism and flirtation, but AUHSD failed to act. Even after another student reported abuse and Sepe was arrested, AUHSD allowed him to remain employed within the district. Plaintiff argued AUHSD ignored red flags, suppressed concerns, and shielded Sepe, creating unsafe conditions for minors.
Injury
Slocum state
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