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Image: Screenshot of Little Village Lawndale High School from Google Local.
Chicago Public Schools has agreed to a $17.5 million settlement involving a former high school dean who was convicted of sexually abusing a student, ABC 7 Chicago reported Wednesday. The settlement follows the criminal case against Brian Crowder, who served as dean of Little Village Lawndale High School and was sentenced in August to 22 years in prison.
Prosecutors said Crowder engaged in sexual abuse and assault while in a position of authority over the student. The survivor later filed a civil lawsuit against the district, resulting in the multimillion-dollar settlement announced Wednesday.
In a statement, Chicago Public Schools said it denies wrongdoing but chose to settle to avoid the uncertainty, cost, and emotional burden of a trial. The district said it remains focused on student safety and supporting the school community.
Attorneys for the survivor issued a statement earlier this year after Crowder’s guilty verdict, describing it as a critical step toward accountability. They praised the survivor’s courage in testifying publicly about the grooming, manipulation, and sexual abuse she endured beginning at age 15. The firm also said it represents seven other survivors who reported similar misconduct by staff at the same high school.
The attorneys emphasized that the case highlights broader institutional issues, including failures to detect and prevent grooming within the district. They said they will continue pursuing civil litigation and advocating for reforms to ensure student safety.
If You’re Ready to Take Legal Action
If you or someone you love was harmed in a school, youth program, or any institutional setting, you may have the right to pursue justice. Our Institutional Sexual Abuse Lawsuit Guide explains your options, how cases work, and what to expect when seeking legal help.
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