On September 9, 2020, attorneys Lisa Esser-Weidenfeller and Elaina Bailey held a press conference to describe details of Detroit-area teacher Jason Debandt’s sexual abuse of female middle and high school. Sommers Schwartz represents eight young women Debandt groomed, many of whom attended the conference.

Survivors of Debandt’s sexual misconduct told reporters from local and national news outlets of his inappropriate behavior, sexually suggestive texts and comments, sexual videos, harassment, and unwelcome physical contact. They say Debandt engaged in the misconduct as far back as 2005 through 2018, although more recent abuses may be revealed as more survivors come forward.

Ms. Esser-Weidenfeller issued this warning to Jason Debandt at the press conference: “The truth is coming to light. You cannot hide from it. You cannot run from it.”

You can watch WXYZ-TV’s coverage of the event here:

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If you were sexually assaulted by Jason Debandt or have information about his predatory sexual behavior, please contact us to discuss the details privately, safely, and confidentially.