Former Trap Hill Middle student settles sexual harassment claim for $95K

BECKLEY – The mother of a former student at Trap Hill Middle School who alleges he was sexually harassed has asked for approval of a settlement with the Raleigh County Board of Education.

Ericka Banks, the mother of a 14-year-old identified as M.B., petitioned the Raleigh Circuit Court for approval of her settlement on Nov. 27. The settlement is worth $95,000 and would be paid by the Board’s insurers, National Union Fire Insurance Company and AIG Property and Casualty.

The alleged harassment occurred in February and March.

“The Petitioner represents to this Honorable Court that the minor, M.B., has made an excellent recovery from the injuries which he received,” the petition says.

“Petitioner is informed and believes that the minor, M.B., has no foreseeable future or permanent injuries. Petitioner also is informed and believes that there are no other consequences or complications from the injuries suffered by the minor, nor a need for any subsequent treatment.”

M.B. is represented by Brett J. Preston of Preston & Salango in Charleston and Travis A. Griffith of Olivio & Griffith in Charleston.

After payment of attorneys fees and medical expenses are made, the rest will be deposited in a savings account to be accessed by M.B. when he reaches the age of maturity.

Trap Hill Middle is located in Glen Daniel.

From the West Virginia Record: Reach John O’Brien at jobrienwv@gmail.com.