A lawsuit filed in Ocean County claims a New Egypt High School student suffered serious injuries after being assaulted by another student despite alleged prior threats and warnings.
A civil lawsuit filed in Ocean County Superior Court accuses New Egypt High School, the Plumsted Township School District, and the Plumsted Township Board of Education of failing to protect a student who was allegedly assaulted on school grounds.
The complaint was filed on behalf of a minor identified only as O.S. by his guardian ad litem, Stephen Szbanz. The lawsuit also names another student, identified as B.L., as a defendant.
According to the complaint, the incident occurred on May 9, 2024, while O.S. was lawfully on the New Egypt High School campus. The lawsuit alleges B.L. had previously threatened, intimidated, and bullied O.S. before the alleged assault took place.
School allegedly knew of prior threats
One of the central claims in the lawsuit is that school officials allegedly had notice of threats made against the student before the incident occurred. The complaint contends the school, district, and Board of Education had a duty to supervise students and take steps to prevent the assault.
The filing alleges school officials failed to “prevent the assault committed by Defendant, B.L.” and failed to properly train, supervise, and support staff responsible for student safety.
The lawsuit further claims the district failed to maintain and enforce adequate policies and procedures designed to protect students and ensure safe supervision on campus.
Student claims serious injuries
According to the complaint, B.L. allegedly made physical contact with O.S. without consent, causing injuries. The lawsuit alleges the student suffered “severe, disabling and permanent injuries” and required medical treatment as a result of the incident.
The filing states the injuries have affected the student’s normal activities and may require future medical care.
In addition to negligence claims against the school entities, the lawsuit includes assault and battery claims against the student defendant.
Jury trial requested
Court records show the lawsuit was filed May 8 in Ocean County Superior Court and seeks compensatory damages, punitive damages, attorney fees, costs, and other relief. The plaintiffs have requested a jury trial.
The allegations contained in the complaint are claims made by the plaintiffs and have not been proven in court. Attorneys for the defendants had not yet filed a response to the lawsuit.
Key Points
• A lawsuit claims a New Egypt High School student was assaulted on campus in May 2024.
• The complaint alleges the school and district knew of prior threats but failed to prevent the incident.
• Plaintiffs claim the student suffered serious injuries and are seeking damages through a jury trial.
