Summary: Heninger Garrison Davis secures a $1.5 million settlement against a cheerleading coach and gym for sexual abuse and invasion of privacy of two young women.
Erik Heninger and Brandy Robertson, partners and distinguished attorneys at Birmingham, AL law firm Heninger Garrison Davis, LLC, have been conducive in attaining a positive outcome for two victims of sexual assault.
In a recent court case, the judge awarded the two victims a settlement of $1.5 million which reflects the severity of what happened to them.
The life-changing amount got awarded to the two young female victims for what they endured at the hands of a cheerleading coach and the gym where the abuse occurred.
The court heard how the cheerleading coach also secretly recorded the cheerleaders – who were minors at the time of the offenses – in various states of undress both at the gym (including the gym’s bathrooms) and even on a trip to a cheer competition.
“One of the most alarming aspects of these cases is seeing the level of sophistication and patience some of these predators will use to groom their victims. We’ve learned that grooming can take place anywhere – schools, churches, playgrounds, social media platforms, offices, etc. Someone being groomed will usually be given gifts or enjoy a newly perceived ‘status’ bestowed by the abuser. This is one of the ways a predator will gain the trust of their target,” Heninger said.
Erik Heninger and Brandy Robertson were instrumental in helping the two brave young women have their voices heard in a court of law and holding the cheerleading coach and his gym to account for their actions.
While the judgment won’t erase the memory of those heinous crimes committed against the cheerleaders, it serves as a reminder of the seriousness of sexual crimes – particularly against minors, as this sad example illustrates.
Said Heninger, “Sadly, many incidents of sexual assault and sexual abuse involve a person of power or authority taking advantage of individuals who are younger or perceived as being ‘weaker’ by the abuser. Truth is, the people we have represented in these cases have been incredibly brave and strong; unwilling to be silent victims and allow the abuser to carry on the despicable acts.”
The Ugly Truth Of Sexual Crimes By People in Authority
Heninger Garrison Davis, LLC has undeniably helped reach a positive conclusion for the young victims of sexual abuse and invasion of privacy caused by their cheerleading coach. However, the ugly truth is that it’s not an isolated example.
Each year, many high-profile cases of sexual crimes on minors by their teachers make the headlines in the media. Sexual abuse and misconduct by people in a position of authority is a national problem affecting children of all ages.
The judgment secured by Heninger Garrison Davis, LLC for the two victims of sexual abuse and invasion of privacy is just one of hundreds of examples that occur each year. The actual figure is thought to be higher, given that many victims don’t feel they can speak out.
How Victims Should Respond
All victims of sexual abuse at the hands of their educators should know it is never their fault. Firstly, they should gather as much evidence as possible and approach their local law enforcement, either directly or via their parents or legal guardians.
They will then receive the appropriate help and support to help them through their experiences. Secondly, victims can seek legal advice, if required, to ensure those responsible for the abuse get held to account.
About Heninger Garrison Davis, LLC
Heninger Garrison Davis, LLC is a law firm based in Birmingham, AL. Boasting many accolades and awards for both the law firm and its attorneys, Heninger Garrison Davis, LLC is the result of a merger between two distinct law firms back in 2005.
They have several practice areas, ranging from sexual abuse and misconduct to medical malpractice and personal injury. The team comprises several attorneys offering decades of experience and thousands of successful cases.
Please direct all press inquiries to:
Tzena Gauldin
Heninger Garrison Davis, LLC
2224 1st Avenue North
Birmingham, AL 35203
Tel: (205) 549-4461
Email Address: tgauldin@hgdlawfirm.com
Website URL: https://www.hgdlawfirm.com
