Los Angeles Injury Attorney Blog

It was only Monday, January 30th when Mark Berndt was arrested for committing lewd acts on 23 of his students at Miramonte Elementary School. Investigators discovered nearly 400 photographs in Berndt's possession depicting children in bondage, gagged, taped, and even being fed a suspicious clear-white fluid. While investigators were questioning victims, authorities uncovered another case of sexual abuse, and one girl may be the victim of two Miramonte teachers.

On Friday, February 3rd, Martin Bernard Springer was arrested on suspicion of lewd acts on two girls who were approximately 7-years old at the time of the incidents. The parents of one of the girls identified in the Berndt case have also reported complaints against Springer. Springer allegedly touched the leg and thigh of the girls in an inappropriate manner and is being held on a $2 million bail. Parents are concerned and outraged over the reports of not one but two child sex abuse scandals. The repeated cases of child sex abuse at Miramonte Elementary School are indicative of a larger problem regarding the school's lax supervision.

Parents and guardians entrust the safety of their children to schools, churches, camps, and other childcare institutions expecting their children are protected from all reasonably foreseeable dangers. When these parties that are responsible for the safety of children neglect to institute sufficient supervisory measures against child sex abuse, they must be held responsible. The criminal charges against the perpetrator do not take into account the other negligent parties whose wrongful actions enabled and contributed to the incidents of child abuse. Filing a civil suit can help families and child molestation victims seek justice and financial compensation for the damages related to their abuse.

The family of the female student, who is involved in both the Berndt and Springer cases, is planning to file a suit against the Los Angeles Unified School District. Other families who have been harmed in either of the Miramonte cases or other cases of child sex abuse are strongly advised to seek the legal counsel of a professional child molestation lawyer. A thorough review of your case by an experienced Los Angeles child sex abuse lawyer can help you determine your eligibility to recover damages related to your or your loved one's abuse. Even adults, who have suffered abuse years ago as a child, may still be able to seek justice and closure in a successful personal injury case.

To ensure your rights are not compromised, be sure to consult a knowledgeable child sex abuse attorney regarding your potential case as soon as possible.

LOS ANGELES - Mark Berndt who was a former teacher at Miramonte Elementary School, was arrested Tuesday at his Torrance home and is being charged with committing lewd acts involving 23 boys and girls, ages 6 to 10, between 2008 and 2010, Fox News reported.

The investigation first began when Berndt, 61, processed film in a Redondo Beach CVS drugstore. The store found and turned in the film that showed numerous children blindfolded with their mouths gagged with packing tape and large, Madagascar-type cockroaches on their faces. Some photos showed Berndt's arm spoon-feeding the children with a white substance that DNA tests revealed to be his semen.

According to 89.3 KPCC News, authorities reported that the children were told they were playing a "tasting game" and were supposed to say whether the substance was sweet or salty and if they liked the taste. Roughly 40 photographs were turned in from the store, and approximately 400 photos were found at the photo lab, Berndt's home, and subsequent searches. Berndt appeared in court today and his bail was increased from $2.3 million to $23 million. His arraignment on 23 counts of lewd acts has been held over until February 23.

Many parents, whose children have attended or currently are attending the elementary school, have expressed and voiced out their concerns and opinions. They also have questions that are left unanswered regarding why they weren't notified when the photos were found and, if the principal knew of the situation, why wasn't anyone informed.

Now if the information provided by news reports is accurate, it is emotionally disturbing how Berndt took advantage of his authority as a teacher and of the innocent children. Many students who enroll at the school are learning English as their second language and have been unable to communicate what occurred.

Therefore, as the investigation remains ongoing, the parents of Berndt's students would be well-advised to contact a knowledgeable and experienced Miramonte Elementary School molestation lawyer. Attorneys at the law firm of Estey and Bomberger have handled many incidents like this and have the experience of representing victims of horrendous abuse. Thus, speaking to an attorney immediately is absolutely vital, as he or she may be able to help families hold the perpetrator responsible, as well as the school, school district, and other entities responsible if it is determined that their negligent supervision contributed to the horrific acts Berndt is accused of.

Continue reading "Ex-Miramonte Elementary Teacher Accused of Lewd Acts Involving Children, Bail Raised to $23 Million" »

SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY -- A ROTC teacher at Carter High School in Rialto was arrested Tuesday on the suspicion of sexually abusing a 16-year-old girl, the San Bernardino County Sun reports. Thomas Hugh Danielly, 49, of Highland, is accused of committing multiple sexual acts with a student in the ROTC program between 2008 and 2010. The sexual abuse incidents that were reported within those two years took place on school grounds. When an arrest warrant was put out for Danielly, he immediately turned himself in and then was arrested and booked into West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga. Authorities investigating this incident believe there might be other victims involved. Therefore, anyone who has fallen victim to this crime or has information regarding this incident is asked to call the Rialto Police Department at (909)820-2521.

Child Molestation and Sexual Abuse Liability

Sexual violence on any person, especially in children, can be traumatic and life changing. When victims are forced into unwanted sexual acts from a person who is under employment of a supervising entity, that entity can be held financially responsible for the person's criminal actions. Therefore, while the investigation is ongoing, the victim or family members of the victim would be well-advised to contact a knowledgeable and experienced California crime victim lawyer. A skilled attorney who has handled sexual assault incidents such as this one, can advise the family of their legal rights and best course of action to recover the maximum compensation for emotional and physical injury, future medical needs, and other damages relating to this devastating incident.

Continue reading "ROTC Teacher Arrested on Suspicion of Sexually Abusing a 16-year-old Girl in Rialto" »

RIVERSIDE COUNTY -- A 47-year-old Banning man was arrested Monday afternoon for molesting a 2-year-old relative, The Press-Enterprise reports. The girl's mother came to the Banning apartment at about 2 p.m. in the 700 block of West Nicolet Street where she saw the man molesting her daughter. The mother, whose name was not released, confronted the man before he left the apartment. The man, identified as Antonio Garcia, fled from police, but was later found in the 600 block of West Ramsey Street. Garcia was arrested and book at the Larry D. Smith Correctional Facility on suspicion of oral copulation of a child under 10 years old.

Child Molestation and Sexual Abuse Liability

Child molestation can cause traumatic and life-changing injuries both physically and mentally to any victim involved. While the investigation of this incident on September 19th is ongoing, if it is determined the man did molest the child, he will not only face criminal charges, but can be held financially liable for the victim's injuries. Therefore, the family of the victim would be well-advised to contact a California child molestation victim lawyer. If the family decides to pursue a civil lawsuit, a knowledgeable attorney who has handled incidents such as this one, can advise the family of their legal rights and recover the maximum compensation the victim is entitled to for emotional and physical injury, future medical needs, and other damages relating to this devastating incident. Anyone with information regarding the event that took place should call the Banning Police Department at (951)922-3170.

Continue reading "Relative Accused of Molesting a Girl in Banning" »

RIVERSIDE COUNTY -- A 51-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of sexually assaulting a cleaning woman, North County Times reported. According to police, the woman, whose name was not released, reported the incident on August 31st that a man hired her to clean vacant businesses at a shopping center in the 16700 block of Lake Elsinore. Following the woman's janitorial duties, the man offered her a modeling job and as she was changing clothes at a place near the shopping center, the man sexually assaulted her. Authorities identified the man involved in this horrific incident as Luis Medina Valencia, of Lake Elsinore. On Thursday, Valencia was arrested and booked into the Southwest Detention Center in French Valley on one count of sexual battery.

Sexual Assault Liability

Sexual abuse of any kind can be traumatic and life changing for any victims involved. A person who force sexual acts among another person will not only face criminal charges, but can be held financially liable for the victim's injuries. Therefore, the victim or family members of the victim would be well-advised to speak to a knowledgeable California crime victim lawyer. A skilled attorney who has the experience in sexual assault incidents, can advise the victim of her legal rights and best course of action to recover the maximum compensation for emotional and physical injury, future medical needs, and other damages relating to this devastating incident. While the sexual assault incident remains under investigation by police officials, anyone with information regarding the event that took place on August 31st should call the Lake Elsinore Police Department at (951)245-3300 or after hours and on weekends at (951)776-1099.

Continue reading "Man Accused of Sexual Assault in Lake Elsinore" »

SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY -- An urgent care physician, Ramon Fawzi Fakhoury, 35, of Norco, is accused of sexually assaulting his patients during examinations at Loma Linda University Medical Center, San Bernardino County Sun reports. A 32-year-old woman, whose name has not been released, went to the east urgent care campus in July to seek treatment for chest pain. Two days later, the woman contacted the hospital staff, stating Fakhoury sexually assaulted her during the exam. The investigation of the woman's complaint prompted the hospital staff to notice a similar incident regarding a 68-year-old woman who also complained Fakhoury sexually assaulted her during the examination. Both complaints were reported in a 24-hour period in July.

Following the allegations, the Sheriff's detectives investigated the claims and the San Bernardino County District Attorney's Office filed charges against Fakhoury, which includes forcible acts of sexual penetration, sexual battery, and assault with intent to commit felony and crimes against an elderly adult. On August 30th, Fakhoury turned himself in at the West Valley Detention Center, where he was arrested on the charges filed against him.

Sexual Assault Liability

Sexual violence can be traumatic and life changing to any individuals involved. When victims are forced into unwanted sexual acts from a person who is under employment of a supervising entity, that entity can be held financially responsible for that person's criminal actions. Therefore, while the investigation is ongoing, victims or their families are well-advised to contact a skilled California crime victim lawyer. A knowledgeable attorney who has the expertise in sexual assault cases, can advise victims of their legal rights and best course of action to recover the maximum compensation for future medical needs, emotional and physical injury, and other damages relating to this devastating incident.

Continue reading "Loma Linda University Medical Center Doctor Accused of Sexually Assaulting Patients" »

More and more information is being collected in the Los Angeles disabled sexual assault case, which we are closely monitoring. As we previously reported, in March of 2010, a computer technician anonymously provided LA County Sheriff's detectives 11 DVDs containing more than 100 hours of men sexually assaulting severely disabled women.

Authorities have made significant progress, and so far have located two suspects, the anonymous tipster and one of the victims. CNN reported that the second of at least 10 disabled victims has come forward and spoke with authorities. The second woman, 27, came forward to investigators after following the story on the news.

The first suspect, Bert Hicks, is currently incarcerated in a Tehachapi, CA state prison, for sexual assault, abuse, and fiduciary crimes against the first victim. Hicks is scheduled to be released in 2012.

Last Friday, sheriff's investigators served search warrants at three residential care facilities in western Los Angeles County. One of the residences is a location where both victims say they were sexually assaulted. The incidents took place between 2007 and 2009.

Sexual Assault Victims' Rights

Victims of unwanted sexual assaults may have legal recourse against not just the perpetrator, but the facilities where the incidents took place. Residential care facilities have obligations and responsibilities to protect those entrusted with their care from harm. Failure to protect the victims may constitute negligent supervision and improper security. The victims may be entitled to significant financial compensation for their injuries, including psychological care, counseling, therapy, as well as compensation for pain and suffering. While this case remains under investigation, the victims and their families would be well-advised to consult a disabled sexual assault lawyer can help them protect their legal rights to recover financial compensation for their injuries and the pain they suffered.

Continue reading "Videotaped Sexual Assaults: Second Victim Located" »

Estey Bomberger is closely monitoring developments in the videotaped sexual assault investigation that is rapidly evolving in Los Angeles. After months of reviewing more than 100 hours of grainy videotape showing horrific sexual acts on disabled women, authorities say they've located and interviewed one of the victims, a 25-year-old woman who resides at a Los Angeles County residential care facility.

Due to her medical condition, the victim, whose name or location is not being released, is physically defenseless and unable to move. The District Attorney's office has requested more medical information on the victim, and investigators were expect to provide that information a few days ago.

Last Saturday, one of the suspects, Ernie Lloyd, 27, turned himself in to authorities after seeing himself depicted in police sketches. The victim told authorities that Lloyd had sexually assaulted her, along with another suspect in the case. Detective said the interview was emotional and painful for the victim, and described her as "very traumatized."

The first suspect in the case, Bert Hicks, 42, who is currently incarcerated in Tehachapi, CA, is serving time for abuse, sexual assault and fiduciary crimes against the woman. The victim told investigators that Hicks took her and married her, possibly in Las Vegas.

Investigators have not determined if the crimes for which Hicks is serving time are part of the 100 hours of video coverage. At least eight other women and six other men are believed to be involved. Tips are coming in from around the country.

Continue reading "L.A. Disabled Rape Investigation: Authorities Locate First Victim " »

A 27-year-old Los Angeles man turned himself into authorities Saturday night in connection with the ongoing investigation of the more than 100 hours of video of sexual assaults of disabled women. The suspect, Ernie Lloyd, appeared at a Hollywood police station and announced that he had seen himself on the news and knew that he was wanted in connection with the case.

According to Los Angeles County Sheriff's Capt. Michael Parker, authorities had identified Lloyd before he turned himself in. Lloyd is being held on $100,000 bail. Another man suspected in the case, Bert Hicks, 42, is currently serving time at Tehachapi State Prison on sexual abuse charges. Hicks is reportedly scheduled to be released in 2012.

Authorities believe the assaults of severely disabled women took place at a Los Angeles residential care facility where Lloyd was living at the time. Investigators believe that they have identified one of the victims, and are working to locate her.

The video footage, which consists of more than 100 hours of video and surveillance camera coverage, is not being released to the public. The video was discovered by a computer technician who was hired to wipe a hard drive clean. Before clearing the hard drive, he made copies of the video and turned it in to authorities. The tipster, who is not suspected of any wrongdoing, spoke with authorities over the weekend.

What to Do If You Have Information

This investigation is ongoing, and authorities say there are as many as 10 men suspected of sexually assaulting severely disabled women. So far, only two have been identified. If you have information about this case, please contact the Special Victims Bureau at their special toll free hotline at (866) 247-5877 or your local sheriff's station, as soon as possible. You can also provide information anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477, or by sending a text messages the letters TIPLA plus your tip to CRIMES (274637).

Protecting Victims' Legal Rights

This case is particularly disturbing because the victims of these sexual assaults were helpless to do anything; many of them were reportedly unable to move. They could not pick up a phone or tell anyone what they suffered. We hope the investigation by the Sheriff's Department will locate all of the parties involved in this case - and that the suspects will be fully prosecuted. The family members of the victims of these horrendous rapes should also consider speaking with a sexual assault victim lawyer who understands the injustices these women suffered, and can help them hold not just the perpetrators, but the facilities that also may be responsible. If indeed these incidents occurred at a residential care facility, the facilities themselves may be financially liable for the incidents, for negligently supervising their employees, and failing to protect the women from harm.

Other entities, such as the agency that hired the men to take care of the women, may also be liable, if they failed to perform a sufficient background check on the hired employees. Without more information - information that authorities don't even know yet - it is impossible to know who is responsible for these sexual assaults. However, based on the information already provided to the public, it is clear that the victims may have legal rights to compensation for the severe emotional trauma they suffered.

Continue reading "Los Angeles Sexual Assault Case: Second Suspect Arrested " »

The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department said yesterday that they've located the man who turned in 11 DVDs last March that contained more than 100 hours of disturbing video of sexual assaults on disabled women. The man, who is not being identified and who is not suspected of any wrongdoing, told investigators that he turned in the content anonymously because he feared for his safety.

The tipster, a computer technician, revealed Sunday to authorities that a drug addict had given him a computer to clean its hard drive. Before cleaning the drive, he saw the videos and copied them and sent them to the sheriff's department with a note. He contacted authorities recently after seeing coverage of the ongoing investigation in the news.

The DVDs included both video shot by a security surveillance-type camera, as well as a handheld camera. Many of the assault victims were severely disabled, and some were even wearing diapers. Sheriff's detectives said more than 50 tips have come in with quality information.

Continue reading "Detectives Locate Tipster in Los Angeles Disabled Rape Investigation" »

In March 2010, an anonymous tipster hand-delivered 11 DVDs containing more than 100 hours of videotape at the Los Angeles Sheriff's Headquarters Bureau in Monterey Park, showing videos that appear to be 10 female patients at residential care facilities being raped. From the videos, which have not been released, it is unclear when or where the assaults took place, although authorities believe the acts occurred within the last three years. Veteran investigators assigned to the case called the content "extremely disturbing" and "shocking to the conscience," and say this is one of the worst cases of abuse of defenseless victims they have ever investigated.

Some of the videos appear to come from surveillance videos, while others appear to come from handheld cameras. Investigators believe the perpetrators were employed by residential care facilities and that the victims were sexually assaulted at residential care facilities.

After months of investigation, detectives say they are coming closer to identifying the suspects. Los Angeles Police Detectives reportedly contacted sheriff's detectives this week and said they recognized one of the suspects, Bert Hicks (pictured at far left in the image above) and possibly a second man, whose identity was not released. Sheriff's officials said January 7th that they've identified two of the men suspected in the case. Hicks, 42, is currently serving a sentence at Tehachapi State Prison for sexual assault, and is up for parole in 2012.

Anyone with information about the assaults was asked to contact the Special Victims Bureau at (866) 247-5877. Sheriff's officials said they would also like to talk to the anonymous tipster who dropped off the footage at the Monterey station, promising the person could remain anonymous.

Sexual Abuse Victims' Rights

These incidents are shocking and disturbing, and raise so many questions. Who filmed the videos? Who knew about these multiple instances of abuse and turned a blind eye? Were background checks performed on these employees that allegedly committed the acts of abuse at residential care facilities? While this investigation is ongoing, the family members of the victims of these shocking crimes would be well-advised to contact a Los Angeles sexual abuse lawyer as soon as possible. While nothing can be done to make the pain of these horrific acts go away, a lawyer can ensure the victims are compensated for the undoubtedly horrendous emotional pain and trauma they've endured and ensure that other victims do not suffer the same injustices in the future.

Continue reading "Investigators Begin Identifying Men Suspected of Assaulting Disabled Women " »