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The family of a fourth student allegedly sexually assaulted by Hamilton High School football players plans to file a multimillion-dollar notice of claim, according to the family’s attorney.
The $7 million notice of claim against the Chandler Unified School District is expected to be filed on Wednesday, attorney Daniel Raynak told The Arizona Republic. Three families already have filed claims seeking a total of $20 million in damages over allegations that coaches took steps to cover up hazing on campus.
The notices of claim filed so far contend the district was negligent in supervising and hiring the school’s football coaches, who “did nothing to prevent these attacks.”
MORE:What we know about Hamilton football assault case
Two families are asking to settle their claims against the district for $7 million each. The other family is seeking $6 million. Those claims were submitted May 24.
The fourth family recently stepped forward, Raynak said.
Court documents say four victims younger than 15 were assaulted between September 2015 and January 2017. Three football players face charges, with one being prosecuted as an adult.
Chandler police have recommended to the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office that criminal charges be brought against Hamilton Principal Ken James, former Hamilton football head coach Steve Belles and Athletic Director Shawn Rustad.
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In a statement submitted to the county attorney, police investigators allege the three men failed to report violent hazing incidents involving team members to law enforcement.
No charging decisions have been announced by the county attorney.
James and Belles are named in the notices of claim, along with the school’s athletic director and multiple coaches who have not been publicly named by authorities. The notices allege James and Belles had knowledge of the assaults and then camouflaged the incidents when concerns were raised.
RELATED: Chandler police seek charges against Hamilton principal, football coach
At one point, a coach walked in on an assault and didn’t take steps to alert law enforcement, the claims allege.
Victims approached coaches for help to no avail, the claims said.
Instead, coaches allegedly met with players to determine steps to cover up incidents, according to the documents, which were obtained by The Republic.
A CUSD spokesman declined to comment, saying the district does not discuss matters involving potential litigation.
READ MORE:
Charges sought vs. Hamilton athletic director
Police search Hamilton High in sex-assault case
Belles takes blame for Hamilton hazing scandal
Juvenile defendants in Hamilton case released
Email launched Hamilton locker-room assault case
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