School employee sues to obtain disability benefits after being assaulted

A disciplinarian for John McDonough Senior High School has filed a lawsuit against his employer to obtain disability benefits after allegedly being attacked by a student.

Llon Lagarde filed suit against State of Louisiana (Department of Education Recovery School District) July 27 in Orleans Parish District Court.

Lagarde says he was violently attacked in December 2008 and suffers physical and psychological problems, including post traumatic stress disorder, as a result. He claims he is disabled and unable to work as a result of the injuries he received during the attack.

Lagarde received paid assault benefits from the State until his job was terminated in August 2009. Lagarde believes the termination violates his employment contract which stated he could only be terminated for "valid reasons" and only after a hearing by BESE or the state superintendent.

Lagarde is asking to be reinstated to his position with full back pay, reinstatement of all benefits plus interest and court costs.

He is represented by Metairie attorney William R.
Mustian, III.

Judge Michael G. Bagneris is assigned to the case.

Case No. 10-7692