Greenville County Schools approves legal representation for Tanglewood shooting lawsuit
Greenville County Schools was recently sued over the fatal shooting of a 12-year-old student at Tanglewood Middle School in March 2022. During a meeting on April 23, the district’s Board of Trustees approved providing legal representation for the school district and its employees named in the lawsuit. The district is required by state law and school board policy to defend an employee being sued if they were “acting in the scope of his or her employment,” according to GCS.
Lawsuit Details
The lawsuit was filed by Juanita Joy Jackson, the mother of Jamari Cortez Bonaparte-Jackson, on behalf of his family. It claims the school district failed to exercise reasonable care for Bonaparte-Jackson’s safety at school. It also accuses the district of failing to properly report crime statistics to the Department of Education, train staff on proper conflict resolution methods and implement security procedures to prevent weapons from being brought into the school. Those named in the lawsuit include the school district; Superintendent Burke Royster; Graysen Walles, former principal of Tanglewood Middle; and Harold McPhail, former assistant principal at Tanglewood Middle. The father and aunt of the now-14-year-old charged with murder in the shooting were also named as defendants in the lawsuit. The suit lists several unnamed defendants.
Legal Representation Approval
A Greenville County judge recently ruled the 14-year-old would be tried as an adult. The approval of legal representation by the Board of Trustees indicates a significant step in addressing the legal complexities surrounding the lawsuit. By providing legal counsel for the school district and individuals named in the suit, Greenville County Schools aims to navigate the legal process effectively and ensure the protection of its employees’ rights.
Ensuring Employee Protection
It is crucial for institutions like Greenville County Schools to uphold legal obligations and provide support for their employees facing legal challenges in the course of their duties. The decision to approve legal representation underscores the district’s commitment to safeguarding the interests of its personnel and addressing legal matters in a responsible and transparent manner.
Conclusion
The approval of legal representation for the Tanglewood shooting lawsuit by Greenville County Schools signifies a proactive approach in addressing the legal implications of the tragic incident. As the legal proceedings unfold, the district’s focus on supporting its employees and navigating the legal process reflects a dedication to upholding the principles of accountability and justice.
