MONTICELLO — A Sullivan County jury found the Monticello Central School District liable for negligent supervision after a former high school student was threatened and assaulted during three consecutive school days in February 2022.

The verdict was returned Sept. 17 following a jury trial before Sullivan County Supreme Court Judge Stephan Schick. A separate trial will determine damages.

The student was in 11th grade at Monticello High School during the 2021-22 school year.

According to attorney Julie Iacobucci of Rutberg Breslow Personal Injury Law, bullying and threats involving five other students began during the early part of the school year before escalating on Feb. 14, 15 and 16, 2022.

On Feb. 14, an attempted assault was stopped when school security intervened. Iacobucci said a school security officer was struck during the confrontation while preventing the students from attacking the girl.

The following day, the student was physically assaulted in a girls’ bathroom. Court filings state that she was punched in the nose during the incident.

On Feb. 16, she was attacked by multiple students in a school hallway between classes. In sworn testimony, the student said she was punched and had her hair pulled before the fight was broken up.

The student later sought medical treatment for injuries that included a broken nose and concussion. Court filings state that she later underwent nasal surgery and alleged continuing psychological and emotional effects from the incidents.

At trial, the student’s attorneys argued that the district had prior notice of the bullying and threatening behavior and failed to take adequate steps to protect her.

Iacobucci said jurors were shown school disciplinary records, video evidence and testimony from former district employees, including administrators and security staff. She said the five girls involved had significant disciplinary histories.

The district denied the negligence allegations in court filings.

Officials from Monticello Central School District said the district will not comment on the specifics of the case as the matter remains in active litigation.

A statement released on the district’s website states: “Student safety and well-being remain a top priority for the district. The district takes a proactive, comprehensive approach to meeting student needs, continually reviewing its programs, resources and procedures to help ensure students feel safe, supported, and connected at school.”

It further states districtwide support available for students, including mediation opportunities, an on-site mental health clinic, and embedded social-emotional learning classes. 

The district also has procedures for reporting and responding to any concerns under the Dignity for All Students Act (DASA).

“Any reports or allegations received are taken seriously and addressed promptly,” the district said.

The jury found the district liable for negligent supervision. Iacobucci said the jury did not assign any share of responsibility to the student or anyone else.

The damages phase has not yet been scheduled. Iacobucci said the student may first need another surgery related to her injuries.

Rutberg Breslow attorneys Julie Iacobucci and William J. Thonus tried the case on behalf of the student and her family.