New York State Attorney General Letitia James is suing the Niagara Wheatfield Central School District, accusing the district of failing to protect students from sexual assault.

The AG’s office launched an investigation in 2019 after a student was forced to attend school with her rapist, even after he pleaded guilty.

Investigators now say the district deliberately ignored student’s complaints.

The AG says there have been more than 30 documented incidents of sexual discrimination, sexual assault, harassment and bullying over the last several years.

“It is unconscionable that an institution tasked with educating and protecting its students turned a blind eye to the abuse, harassment, and bullying happening right in its school halls,” said James. “The NWCSD’s inaction demonstrates that it did not have adequate systems in place to protect its students — particularly young women — when they needed it most. This indifference to student suffering has caused physical, mental, and emotional trauma, and jeopardized students’ education. My office remains committed to standing against sexual assault of any kind, anywhere, and ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all New Yorkers. I will continue to use the law to hold the school district accountable for its negligence, and to empower survivors of sexual harassment and assault.”

The AG wants the district to train staff and create new procedures, such as a safety plan for victims and harassment and assault.

In a statement, Superintendent Daniel G. Ljiljanich says the district will respond to any allegations through the court proceeding and will not provide additional comment due to pending litigation.

"The Niagara Wheatfield Central School District was made aware by the media that the New York State Attorney General's office has filed a suit against the District in federal court,” he said. “The District will respond to any allegations through the court proceeding and will not provide additional comment due to this pending litigation.