A lawsuit has surfaced, claiming that the Massapequa School District failed to protect a former student from a janitor, Michael Sodano, who is accused of locking her in a school bathroom and sexually assaulting her. This incident reportedly occurred in February when the victim was an 18-year-old high school senior and has led to a formal complaint filed in Nassau County Supreme Court.
The lawsuit alleges that the school district was aware of Sodano’s questionable behavior but did not take steps to prevent his actions. It states, “Despite knowing about his inappropriate sexual tendencies, the district failed to properly supervise and manage its employees.”
In the weeks leading up to the assault, Sodano is said to have approached the student under the guise of wanting to purchase headphones, even obtaining her phone number. According to the complaint, their text exchanges soon took a concerning turn, with Sodano asking for inappropriate favors such as hugs and even a threesome.
Eventually, Sodano persuaded the student to meet in the men’s restroom near the gym, suggesting it would look casual rather than suspicious. However, once inside, he locked the door using a key and blocked her exit while allegedly assaulting her.
The next day, Sodano was arrested and charged with forcible touching and third-degree sexual abuse. He later pleaded not guilty to these charges and is set to make a court appearance.
The student has filed a lawsuit against the district in July, seeking unspecified damages, as reported by local news. Superintendent Dr. William Brennan acknowledged awareness of the allegations, confirming that the employee involved is no longer with the district. He emphasized that all necessary background checks had been conducted as per state law but declined to discuss specifics due to the confidential nature of the situation.
Sodano’s lawyer has characterized the accusations as unjust, while the student’s attorney did not comment on the matter when approached.
