RENFREW COUNTY — Three former students have commenced a $10 million lawsuit as a result of childhood sexual abuse they suffered at the hands of former teacher and principal Clarke Anderson while attending the former Fairview Public School of the Renfrew Country District School Board (RCDSB) between 1973 and 1979.
The claim alleges officials knew the abuse was occurring but allowed it to continue unfettered for years. Anderson was convicted in 1998 of seven counts of indecent assault against girls and boys and the plaintiffs believe there are many more victims. The plaintiffs – some of whom their identity is being anonymized for the time being – are asking any other victims or persons who have information relating to sexual abuse by Anderson to come forward.
According to a statement received by email from the school board, “The Renfrew County District School Board is reviewing a statement of claim filed in Ontario Superior Court on February 20, 2020 seeking damages related to sexual assaults that occurred in the early 1970’s. A former employee was charged and convicted for these assaults in 1998. Our District unequivocally condemns any form of abuse toward students by those who we entrust with their care. At this time we are not in a position to comment on specific questions regarding the lawsuit or any of the events at issue.”
Michael Switzer of Switzer Litigation is acting for the plaintiff and states, “Victims are affected every single day of their lives as a result of childhood sexual abuse. They deserve justice and compensation for the effect that the abuse has had on every aspect of their lives and their families, especially when the criminal justice system has failed them.”
In his news release, Switzer commends his clients for their courage and says the victims’ primary motivation is to use the civil justice system to effect change in society. He says this will see institutions taking steps to ensure their employees do not destroy lives through sexual abuse. Switzer hopes other victims will come forward. He works with a sexual assault trauma therapist and private investigator as part of his team.
