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Newark Jury Awards $30M to Sexual Abuse Survivor

2/1/2026

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Summary

Story summary

A Newark jury awarded $30 million to a sexual abuse survivor in Newark, New Jersey.
The abuse occurred in the 1990s and involved teacher John Cantalupo.
The Newark Board of Education and the City of Newark were found liable, along with John Cantalupo's estate.
Gene Foti, a teacher, failed to report the allegations, contributing to the jury's negligence finding against the school board.

History

Historical Context

The Violence Against Women Act, passed by the U.S. Congress in 1994, aimed to combat sexual violence and support survivors. This legislation highlighted systemic issues in educational institutions, exemplified by the Newark Board of Education's $30 million liability in a case involving teacher John Cantalupo. The failure to report abuse reflects ongoing challenges in protecting vulnerable individuals within educational environments.

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Story summary

A Newark jury awarded $30 million to a sexual abuse survivor in Newark, New Jersey.
The abuse occurred in the 1990s and involved teacher John Cantalupo.
The Newark Board of Education and the City of Newark were found liable, along with John Cantalupo's estate.
Gene Foti, a teacher, failed to report the allegations, contributing to the jury's negligence finding against the school board.

1 / 2