Trial News

Jaliel Reyes, 8, was playing tag on his school’s playground. Another student pushed Reyes, who fell beneath a jungle gym. When he stood up, the back of his head was lacerated by a metal component on the jungle gym. Reyes was taken to a hospital and received 25 stitches. He now has scarring and a fear of playgrounds.

Reyes, through his mother, sued the New York City Department of Education, alleging that school personnel failed to properly supervise the children on the playground. Suit also alleged that the jungle gym was unsafe and that this was known to the teacher’s aides.

The jury awarded $400,000.

Citation: Reyes v. New York City Dep’t of Educ., No. 350032/15 (N.Y. Sup. Ct. Bronx Cnty. Mar. 1, 2019).

Plaintiff counsel: Jason Herbert, New York City.