Former student files lawsuit against Chicago Public Schools over administrator who allegedly impregnated her twice, coerced abortions

A former student has taken legal action against Chicago Public Schools (CPS), accusing the district of neglecting to safeguard her from years of alleged abuse by a high-ranking administrator.

The lawsuit, filed this month, alleges that district employees at Lawndale High School failed to intervene despite being aware of the abuse perpetrated by former Dean of Students Brian Crowder between 2013 and 2016, according to WGN 9.

The victim, who was 15 years old when the abuse allegedly began, claims that Crowder exploited her vulnerability and trust, initiating their relationship through social media and later engaging in physical abuse. 

“I didn’t really live my high school years how I thought I would, how I pictured them before going into high school,” she said, according to the Hastings Tribune. “I was going through it by myself because I couldn’t go to anybody but him.” 

During the abuse, Crowder allegedly impregnated the student two different times and coerced her into aborting both pregnancies.  

To comply with state laws at the time, which required minors to have parental consent for abortions, Crowder posed as the student’s stepfather and signed the consent forms under a false name. 

Despite the victim’s attempts to seek help by confiding in a teacher, the lawsuit contends that appropriate action was not taken, allowing the abuse to persist unchecked. 

Moreover, it alleges that district employees commented on how much time the minor spent in Crowder’s office but failed to intervene, even while making light of the situation.  

In response to the lawsuit, CPS emphasized its commitment to student safety but declined to comment further due to the ongoing litigation.  

“Chicago Public Schools (CPS) prioritizes the safety and well-being of our students,” a CPS spokesperson said, according to WGN 9. “We take seriously our responsibility to ensure all employees act in the best interest of our students. 

“The district does not comment on pending investigations or litigation. Our CPS team follows District policies and procedures as we respond to issues.” 

Crowder was removed from his position in 2021 following the allegations and subsequently arrested on sexual assault charges in 2022. 

Crowder is currently out on bond and scheduled back in court April 17, according to public records. 

This case adds to a troubling pattern of sexual assault allegations within CPS. Recent data presented at a Chicago Board of Education meeting revealed a 12% increase in complaints during the 2023-24 academic year, according to the Chicago Tribune.