At Merson Law, we are committed to advocating for justice and holding institutions accountable for their actions.
Recently, a heartbreaking case has come to the forefront involving the tragic suicide of Taylor Brown, a young woman from Seneca Falls. The wrongful death lawsuit, filed by her parents Melissa Brand Brown and Stephen Brown, sheds light on the severe and prolonged bullying Taylor endured, allegedly condoned and ignored by the Seneca Falls school district and specific staff members.
The Case Against Seneca Falls School District
The lawsuit, filed on June 25, 2024, in the New York State Supreme Court of Seneca County, names the Seneca Falls school district, three of its schools—Mynderse Academy, Seneca Falls Middle School, and Elizabeth Cady Stanton School—and individual staff members Faith Lewis, Kevin Rhinehart, Andrew Doell, and Amy Hibbard as defendants.
The Browns’ complaint asserts that these parties allowed a years-long campaign of bullying and harassment against Taylor, which they believe directly contributed to her June 24, 2023, death.
The Allegations
The lawsuit details six causes of action:
- Negligence
- Negligent hiring, retention, and supervision
- Negligent infliction of emotional distress
- Intentional infliction of emotional distress
- Wrongful death
- Loss of services (love, society, and companionship of their daughter)
According to the complaint, the bullying began in 2013 when Taylor was a student at Elizabeth Cady Stanton Elementary School and persisted through her senior year at Mynderse Academy.
Despite being aware of the relentless bullying and harassment, the school district and its staff allegedly failed to take appropriate measures to protect Taylor, ultimately leading to her tragic death.
Merson Law Takes Action
Representing the Browns in this critical case are Nathan Werksman and fellow Merson Law attorney, Alice Bohn.
Nathan Werksman, known for his dedication and tenacity, stated, “It was absolutely unacceptable what Taylor went through. The school should have done so much more to protect Taylor.” Alice Bohn, a steadfast advocate for victims’ rights, echoes this sentiment and is committed to ensuring that justice is served.
A Pursuit for Accountability
The Browns, through their legal representation, are seeking unspecified compensatory and punitive damages. Nathan Werksman emphasized that this lawsuit is not just about seeking compensation but about holding the responsible parties accountable and preventing such tragedies from occurring in the future. “We’re going to get to the bottom of this,” Werksman asserted, highlighting the rigorous discovery process ahead.
A Call for Change
Melissa Brand Brown, Taylor’s mother, had previously addressed the school board, advocating for several measures to prevent future tragedies, including mental health absences, mandatory reporting of suicide risks, annual training for recognizing suicide risks, and banning mobile devices during school hours.
The Browns’ attorney, Nathan Werksman, noted that the timing of the lawsuit—around the first anniversary of Taylor’s death—was intentional, symbolizing their ongoing struggle for justice and change. “This brave step by the Browns is a testament to their resilience and commitment to ensuring what happened to Taylor does not happen to anyone else,” Werksman said.
In Memory of Taylor Brown
Taylor’s obituary poignantly captured her compassionate nature and dedication to caring for others. She had planned to enter nursing school to become a trauma nurse, having already made significant strides in her education and career. Even in death, Taylor’s legacy of compassion continues, as she had chosen to be an organ donor.
At Merson Law, we stand with the Browns in their pursuit of justice for Taylor. We are determined to see this case through to ensure accountability and foster a safer environment for all students.
For more information on this case and our commitment to fighting for justice, please visit contact Merson Law directly.
About Merson Law
Merson Law is a premier law firm dedicated to advocating for victims’ rights and seeking justice in cases of negligence, abuse, and wrongful death. Our experienced team, led by passionate attorneys like Nathan Werksman and Alice Bohn, is committed to holding institutions accountable and ensuring that our clients receive the justice they deserve.
This article is based on an article in Finger Lake Times.
