Trial Begins for Former Teacher Charged with Sexual Assault of Students in Novi School District

Trial Set to Begin for Former Teacher Accused of Sexual Assault

Novi, Mich. —

A former substitute teacher, Timothy Daugherty, aged 61, is preparing to stand trial after being accused of sexually assaulting three female students at Spring Mills Elementary School in the Huron Valley Schools district. These allegations have raised significant concerns among parents and the community.

On Wednesday, in a preliminary court hearing, the judge concluded that there is sufficient evidence to move Daugherty’s case forward to trial. Daugherty faces six felony charges of second-degree criminal sexual conduct. This ruling follows an investigation launched in April 2023 by the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office, prompted by parents who voiced their worries to local media.

Parents brought their concerns regarding Daugherty’s behavior to a school board meeting in May. While he had already been removed from the classroom, criminal charges were not filed until September. The prosecutor’s office indicated that it took time to gather the necessary evidence for the trial.

During the court session on Wednesday, testimony was heard from three young girls, all under the age of 13. Due to the sensitive nature of the testimony, parents and media representatives were not allowed in the courtroom. After the hearing, a parent named Tori expressed her heartbreak over hearing her child describe the incidents. “It’s hard to get out of bed,” she said, reflecting the deep emotional toll this situation has taken on the families involved.

Another parent, Richard, voiced his frustrations and hopes regarding the case. “The wheel of justice sometimes turns slow, and it’s finally coming around. We have faith that the right thing will be done,” he stated, indicating that the families are also pursuing legal action against the school district.

In response to the allegations, the school district has assured the community it is fully cooperating with the investigation and emphasized that the recent hearing only addressed the next steps in the criminal case. A civil lawsuit has also been mentioned but has not yet been filed.

Daugherty’s attorney, Raymond Cassar, maintains that his client’s actions were misconstrued. He argues that Daugherty’s behavior in the classroom, which included hugs and friendly interactions, was not criminal. Cassar believes the allegations arose from misinterpretations and suggests that these interactions were mischaracterized due to outside influences. “He never told them not to tell anyone or that this was a secret,” Cassar explained, emphasizing that no other personnel observed any inappropriate behavior.

As the trial approaches, the emotional ramifications for affected families are palpable. Many parents are struggling to handle the implications of the allegations so close to home. “It is terrifying being in this position,” Tori shared, echoing the sentiment of other parents.

The trial is set to take place in the coming months, as the community on edge awaits the outcome. The seriousness of these charges carries significant implications for both the individuals involved and the broader Huron Valley Schools district.

The case highlights the ongoing issues surrounding safety and accountability in educational settings, raising questions about how schools can better protect students. As the legal process unfolds, parents, students, and community members remain vigilant, hoping for a resolution that fosters security and trust within the school environment.