A lawsuit against Sierra Canyon School in California, alleging the existence of a student-run 'kissing club' that involved sexual abuse of children as young as seven, will proceed publicly after a judge denied the school's request for private proceedings. Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge David B. Gelfound ruled on May 23, 2026, that the case could continue toward a possible jury trial. The lawsuit was filed by the parents of a nine-year-old girl, identified as E.K., who claims the abuse began when she was seven. The family alleges that older female students pressured younger children into sexual acts within school bathrooms, including kissing and genital touching. They also contend that the school failed to supervise adequately, allowing the behavior to escalate.
E.K.'s mother expressed her distress over the situation, stating that she felt helpless as her daughter suffered harm that could have been prevented with better protections in place. The lawsuit claims that school officials discovered videos of the incidents on students' phones but did not notify law enforcement or families, potentially violating California's mandatory child abuse reporting laws. Judge Gelfound noted the severity of the allegations in his ruling, which included claims of harassment and bullying by older students.
Attorney Sam Dordulian, representing the family, indicated that this is the second lawsuit filed against Sierra Canyon involving similar allegations. The school has denied the claims, asserting that it takes student welfare seriously and has implemented corrective measures since concerns were raised in 2024. Sierra Canyon School, known for its celebrity clientele, has stated that the allegations do not accurately reflect the events that occurred on campus. The case is now entering the discovery phase, where both sides will gather evidence as they prepare for trial.
