Boy sexually assaulted by city bus driver: Negligent hiring, supervision: Common carrier liability: Posttraumatic stress: Settlement

Law Reporter, Oct 2004

Doe v. Los Angeles County MTA, Cal., Los Angeles County Super. Ct., No. BC277347, Mar. 19, 2004.

Doe, 15, was riding on a publie bus when the driver sexually assaulted him. Doe suffered posttraumatic stress disorder and severe emotional distress. His past medical expenses were $10,000. The driver was convicted of criminal charges of sexual assault against Doe.

Doe sued the city mass transit authority, alleging it was negligent in hiring the driver, who allegedly had a prior felony conviction for a violent crime at die time of his hiring. Suit also alleged negligent supervision and common carrier liability.

The parties settled in mediation before trial for $1.85 million.

Plaintiff's psychology expert was Rochelle F. Hanson, Charleston, S.C.

Plaintiffs Counsel

* David M. Ring, Los Angeles, CaI.