BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) — A new lawsuit has been filed by a former Starpoint High School student against the district, two former students and an assistant wrestling coach, claiming that he was inappropriately touched on school grounds and the district was negligent in their handling of it.
The suit, which was filed on Monday in New York State Supreme Court in Niagara County, claims that the students “negligently, recklessly and appropriately” touched the plaintiff on several occasions on school grounds.
He also alleges that another incident took place at a structure known as “The Barn,” located on Townline Road in Lockport, which was owned and operated by the assistant wrestling coach. He said the coach was acting in a supervisory capacity the day of the alleged incident and “failed to properly supervise the minor children on his property.”
The former student said that the touching caused “emotional, mental and psychological injuries.”
The alleged incidents are said to have taken place during the winter 2023 season, which was shut down by the district following initial allegations of misconduct. Last fall, the district said a Title IX investigation revealed substantiated allegations of sexual harassment within the team. Harassment charges were filed against two students in March 2023.
News 4 WIVB has reached out to the district for comment, but has not yet heard back.
Aidan Joly joined the News 4 staff in 2022. He is a graduate of Canisius College. You can see more of his work here.