Bucks officials explain decision to not file charges in Jamison Elementary abuse case.
In the wake of serious allegations regarding the treatment of special education students at Jamison Elementary School in Bucks County, District Attorney Jennifer Schorn and Warwick Township Police Chief Mark Goldberg have defended the decision not to pursue criminal charges. This decision follows a comprehensive investigation initiated in November 2024, after concerns were raised about possible abuse within a special needs classroom in the Central Bucks School District.
Chief Goldberg stated that he personally oversaw the investigative process, which included cooperation with the district attorney’s Special Victims Unit. According to his assessment, the evidence gathered did not constitute criminal behavior, a conclusion supported by the district attorney’s office. Goldberg expressed full confidence in the conclusions drawn from the investigation, emphasizing that all necessary measures were undertaken to ensure a thorough review of the allegations.
The district attorney, in her public statement, articulated that her role does not extend to evaluating non-criminal issues. Schorn’s office announced its findings concurrently with the Central Bucks school board’s decision to place Superintendent Steven Yanni on administrative leave. This action stemmed from a report by Disability Rights Pennsylvania, which criticized the district for its inadequate handling of the reported abuse.
The report detailed incidents of abusive practices, including the inappropriate use of physical restraints and threats that could potentially lead to sexual abuse against one student. It also urged the district to consider disciplinary measures against staff members and administrators, alongside proper training to prevent future incidents.
The findings have ignited significant controversy, with the district maintaining that they uncovered no evidence of abuse. However, the report highlighted failures in the investigation process led by Yanni and others in the administration, indicating a troubling “culture of fear” that inhibited staff members from reporting abuse.
Additionally, a separate investigation conducted by the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office concluded without moving forward with charges. Chief Goldberg affirmed the integrity of his department’s investigation, reiterating the professionalism exhibited by his officers throughout the process.
As the situation evolves, the school board has engaged a law firm to conduct a further inquiry into the allegations raised, although the results of this additional investigation remain pending. The community’s response and the school district’s handling of these allegations underscore the critical need for transparency and accountability in the education system, particularly for vulnerable student populations.
