Suspended New Jersey high school principal issues notice of $5 million lawsuit

SECAUCUS – The high school principal suspended in April over his handling of a student who was allegedly caught with marijuana and a knife has suffered emotional distress, embarrassment, and damage to his chiropractic office as a result, according to a notice sent to the school district.

Dr. Robert Berckes has signaled his intent to file a lawsuit of up to $5 million against Secaucus Superintendent Jennifer Montesano and all nine members of the school board. As many as 10 additional defendants could be added to the potential lawsuit.

The tort claims notice, obtained through a records request, was sent to Montesano on June 5.

Berckes, in the filing, says he was notified by Assistant Principal Jeffrey Case that a small amount of marijuana was found in the shoe of a student. Berckes and Case allegedly showed Montesano the bag and she asked what he planned to do with the marijuana. Berckes said he told Montesano he would give it to the police officer stationed at the school, who said it should be flushed down the toilet, the notice indicates.

Read more: https://www.nj.com/hudson/index.ssf/2018/06/suspended_principal_signals_at_5_million_lawsuit_a.html