Crime & Safety

Woman Sues State, Former TCC Instructor for Sexual Abuse

A Gig Harbor woman is accusing her former Tacoma Community College teacher Kevin Gausepohl of sexual misconduct and blaming the State of Washington for failing to protect her.

A Gig Harbor woman has recently filed a lawsuit against her former Tacoma Community College instructor for sexually exploiting her, according to The News Tribune

She is also suing the State of Washington for failing to protect her while she attended the school.

According to Pierce County Superior Court documents, the woman, identified as S.L.N., was taking classes at Tacoma Community College, a state agency.The teen was enrolled in its music and choir program as a Running Start student from Gig Harbor High School.

In April 2011, she claims that Gausepohl offered her free private voice lessons to help improve her vocal range. 

Gausepohl is no longer with the school.

After several lessons, Gausepohl said he was conducting a scientific study, which involved his students to perform sexual activities to help with her vocal range.

Over the four-month period, the woman claims that Gausepohl manipulated and harassed her into performing sexual acts.

Documents state that Gausepohl directed her to sing in nude and touch herself. The instructor also masturbated in front of the teen and attempted to videotape the lessons.

In spring of 2011, fellow students contacted TCC authorities believing that Gausepohl was sexually exploiting the Gig Harbor teen and soliciting others into his study.

Despite the reports, S.L.N. claims the authorities failed to stop the instructor’s actions and investigate the allegations.

TCC spokesperson told the TNT that the safety of its students and staff is a “top priority”, and the college is cooperating in defending the case. 

Read the full report on The News Tribune’s website


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