Centre County Summer Camp Agrees to $8 Million Settlement in Teen Sexual Assault Lawsuit

Camp Woodward, a popular summer camp located near State College in Centre County, Pennsylvania, has agreed to pay an $8 million settlement in a sexual assault case involving a teenage victim in Pennsylvania. The case highlights the critical importance of child safety measures and proper vetting procedures in youth-oriented organizations.

Case Background

In the summers of 2018 and 2019, a 14-year-old girl was sexually assaulted by Nathaniel Singer, a coach at Camp Woodward. The assaults occurred despite prior warnings about Singer's behavior, raising serious questions about the camp's hiring and supervision practices.

Legal Proceedings and Conviction

In January 2023, Singer was convicted on four counts of indecent assault following a jury trial. This criminal conviction laid the groundwork for the subsequent civil lawsuit against Camp Woodward.

Warning Signs Ignored

The case revealed a troubling pattern of ignored warnings:

• In 2017, camp leadership was informed that Singer had engaged in inappropriate behavior with a female camper.
• One week before the assault on the 14-year-old victim, another coach warned the gymnastics camp head that Singer was a "child predator."

Despite these red flags, Camp Woodward continued to employ Singer until 2020.

Victim's Attempt to Seek Help

When the victim tried to report Singer's behavior, she faced dismissal and accusations:

• She informed a coach that Singer was making her uncomfortable
• Instead of support, she was brought into a meeting and accused of "spreading rumors"

This response highlights the importance of proper protocols for handling abuse allegations in youth organizations.

Settlement Details

The $8 million settlement was announced by Kline & Specter, PC, the law firm representing the victim. This substantial sum reflects the severity of the case and the camp's failure to protect its young participants.

Camp Woodward's Response

In a statement, Camp Woodward confirmed the settlement without admitting liability. They expressed commitment to providing a safe environment and implementing policies to promote safety and support.

Legal Implications and Future Actions

This case may have broader implications for summer camps and youth organizations:

• It emphasizes the need for thorough background checks and vetting processes.
• The settlement could set a precedent for holding institutions accountable for failing to protect minors.
• Additional lawsuits against Camp Woodward and Singer are still pending

Attorney Insights From Our Legal Team

Guy D'Andrea, Esq., of Abuse Guardians, comments on the case: "This settlement underscores the critical responsibility that youth organizations bear in protecting children under their care. The repeated failure to act on warnings about a predatory coach is deeply troubling. It serves as a stark reminder that institutions must prioritize child safety above all else, implementing rigorous vetting processes and clear protocols for addressing abuse allegations. This case should prompt all youth-oriented organizations to reassess and strengthen their child protection measures."

Source:

https://www.wtaj.com/news/local-news/centre-county-camp-to-pay-8-million-in-teen-sexual-assault-case/