​DA Issues Statement Regarding Jamison Elementary Abuse Allegations

DOYLESTOWN, PA — Bucks County District Attorney Jennifer Schorn issued the following statement in response to a report released by Disability Rights Pennsylvania related to the allegations of child abuse in a Jamison Elementary School classroom last fall.

“It is my and our Chief of Special Victims Unit’s life mission to identify and prosecute individuals who abuse children," said Schorn. "You will not find fiercer advocates for the protection of children and those with disabilities. As prosecutors, we took an oath to review any allegations of abuse dispassionately with the law as our guide.

"The report by Disability Rights Pennsylvania identifies recommendations for the school district to consider, which include staff and administrator discipline, training, policy development, and additional safeguards for the safety and rights of students with disabilities."

Schorn said as the district attorney, "It is not my place to weigh in on non-criminal matters. To do anything beyond that would be beyond the scope of my statutory authority.”

The Central Bucks School District acknowledged the release of the report in a statement issued by Assistant Superintendent Dr. Charles Malone and school board leadership - President Susan Gibson and Vice President Heather Reynolds.

"The report contains concerning information that the board and district will review with utmost seriousness. It is important that we take the appropriate time to carefully evaluate the information presented before commenting or acting on any details," the statement reads.

"We are also awaiting the results of the independent investigation into this matter. We will consider the DRP and independent reports carefully and are committed to taking any necessary action. The safety of our students remains our highest priority, and we will respond to both reports appropriately and transparently," the statement concludes.