Claim filed over alleged sexual contact of high school football player

FARMINGTON — The Farmington Municipal School District has been notified of possible legal action regarding the alleged criminal sexual contact of a high school football player.

Farmington attorney Steve Murphy filed a notice of tort claim with Farmington schools Thursday that litigation may occur regarding the alleged incident that took place on or about Sept. 5 at Piedra Vista High School, according to a copy of the notice of tort claim.

Murphy is representing the alleged victim and his family.

Murphy stated the notice of tort claim gives the school district 90 days’ notice that litigation may commence.

The claim alleges members of the high school football team conspired to commit the alleged act of criminal sexual contact of a juvenile male on the team.

The notice also alleges members of the school’s athletic department “conspired to ‘cover up’ and ‘minimize’ the tragic event by blaming the victim.”

The high school allegedly conducted a hearing, during which the victim was accused of “lying” and being “untruthful” about the incident, according to the notice.

The alleged victim was asked to provide a written statement regarding the alleged incident, according to Murphy.

The district has refused to provide the victim’s written statement to his mother, who was not notified of the hearing, Murphy stated.

Gene Schmidt, Farmington schools superintendent, said in a statement the district is investigating the allegations and does not comment on ongoing investigations.