The complaint filed in July by 34 former students of Yeshiva University High School for Boys accusing YU of several decades of abuse and seeking $380 million in damages was dismissed today by a Manhattan Federal court.
The reason for the dismissal: too much time has passed since the alleged abuses occurred. Judge John Koeltl issued a 52-page opinion explaining the decision: “Statutes of limitations strike a balance between providing a reasonable time for victims to bring their claims while assuring that defendants have a fair opportunity to defend themselves before evidence is lost or memories fade. In this case, the statutes of limitations have expired decades ago, and no exceptions apply.”
Yeshiva University released the following statement in response:
We are gratified that the federal court recognized the validity of our arguments in dismissing the case against Yeshiva University, which has been an incredibly trying process for all involved. Our thoughts and remorse remain with those affected and harmed, and the confidential counseling services of Yeshiva University remain available to them.
Now we continue to move forward. Yeshiva University and its high schools provide our students with a safe and secure environment, while constantly refining our policies and procedures to ensure they meet the absolute highest standards.
As North America’s Torah-informed university, we recognize our responsibility to assume a leadership role in combating abuse within the community. While we currently offer a range of services and educational programs to assist synagogues, schools, and other institutions in addressing the very real issue of abuse, we continue to look for further ways to engage this issue.
Above all, we remain vigilant in ensuring the safety and wellbeing of our children.
While the University continues to struggle against a precarious and strained financial state, the suit’s dismissal is a tremendous step forward and a sign of hope for the future.