Jefferson Parish school system sued by student who was allegedly threatened with gun

GRETNA – A Jefferson Parish mother and daughter are suing the local school system over damages the daughter alleges she received when a fellow student threatened her life with a gun.

Jessica Colon and her mother Mary Colon filed suit against Jefferson Parish School Board in the 24th Judicial District Court on March. 13.

Jessica Colon claims on March 12, 2012 she was assaulted by a fellow student at Alfred Bonnabel Magnet Academy High School who informed her he had a firearm and threatened her life. The plaintiff alleges that she sustained severe emotional injury due to the incident.

The defendant is accused of failing to maintain a reasonably safe place for students, failing to take the necessary measures to protect the safety of students, failing to properly supervise students, failing to properly supervise employees, not knowing of the violent propensities of the student who threatened the plaintiff and failing to take necessary security measures to prevent the alleged aggressor from entering the school with a firearm of something that looked like a firearm.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for pain and suffering, mental anguish, embarrassment, humiliation, emotional and mental distress, medical expenses, interference with the petitioner’s attendance resulting potential loss of opportunity and employment, loss of consortium and interference with employment resulting in a potential loss of income.

Colon is represented by Anthony J. Livaccari Jr. of New Orleans-based Livaccari, Villarrubia and Lemmon.

The case has been assigned to Division K Judge Ellen Shirer Kovach.

Case no. 724-853.