Two Teens File Federal Lawsuit Against Elite Brooklyn School Over ‘Revenge Porn’ Allegations
BROOKLYN, N.Y. — Two teenage girls have launched a federal lawsuit against Saint Ann’s School, a prestigious private institution in Brooklyn known for its rigorous academics and $63,000 annual tuition, alleging that a former teacher coerced them into sending nude photos when they were just 13 years old. The suit claims that Winston Nguyen, who once taught at the elite prep school, threatened to release the images in what the plaintiffs describe as a “revenge porn blast.”
According to the complaint filed Thursday in federal court, Nguyen impersonated a teenage boy online to manipulate the girls into sending explicit photos and videos. The lawsuit further alleges that he shared these images with other students, exacerbating the trauma faced by the victims. The two girls, who were not enrolled at Saint Ann’s at the time of the alleged misconduct, have named the school, several administrators, and Nguyen as defendants.
Nguyen pleaded guilty last year to a felony charge and multiple misdemeanors related to the case and is currently serving a seven-year prison sentence, as confirmed by the Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office. The civil suit seeks to hold the school accountable for its role in allowing the abuse to occur under its watch.
Saint Ann’s School, located in Brooklyn Heights, has long been regarded as one of New York City’s most selective private schools, with tuition fees that reflect its elite status. Parents pay upwards of $63,000 annually for their children to attend, expecting a safe and nurturing environment. The lawsuit raises serious questions about the institution’s oversight and response to allegations of misconduct by staff.
The case arrives amid increasing national attention on the dangers of non-consensual sharing of intimate images, often referred to as “revenge porn.” Lawmakers have been pushing for stronger protections and criminal penalties to combat this form of abuse. The U.S. House of Representatives recently passed legislation aimed at criminalizing the distribution of intimate images without consent, including those generated or manipulated by artificial intelligence.
Experts emphasize the psychological toll such exploitation can have on minors. The American Civil Liberties Union has been vocal about the need for comprehensive legal frameworks to protect victims and hold perpetrators accountable. This lawsuit highlights the vulnerability of young students and the critical importance of safeguarding their privacy and dignity.
The Saint Ann’s community and alumni have expressed shock and concern over the allegations. The school has yet to issue a detailed public statement addressing the lawsuit. Meanwhile, the plaintiffs’ legal team argues that institutional accountability is essential to prevent future abuses and to provide justice for those harmed.
This lawsuit underscores the broader challenges faced by private educational institutions in maintaining safe environments and responding effectively to misconduct. As the case proceeds, it may set important precedents regarding the responsibilities of schools in protecting students from sexual exploitation and harassment.
For more information on legal protections against non-consensual image sharing, visit the U.S. Department of Justice’s Internet Crime Complaint Center.
Leave a Reply