Bedford High School Sexual Assault Lawsuit

Compensation for Victims Sexually Abused by Former Bedford Teacher

The Bedford High School sexual assault case has deeply impacted students, families, and the wider community, underscoring the urgent need for justice and accountability.

At Injury Lawyer Team, we stand with those harmed by educators and other trusted adults. Allegations center on Christopher Wilhelm, a former teacher and assistant football coach accused of serious teacher-student misconduct. His dual role gave him access and authority, making the harm more severe.

By working with a dedicated Michigan sexual abuse attorney, survivors gain an advocate who can explain their rights, pursue compensation, and ensure their voices are heard.

Claims Against Former Teacher and Football Coach

A new lawsuit in Monroe County names Bedford Public Schools and several administrators as defendants, alleging misconduct by Wilhelm. 

The complaint states he engaged in misconduct with a 17-year-old Bedford High School student between May and December 2022, with abuse occurring during school hours, on school property, and at off-campus locations. 

Reports say Wilhelm’s behavior began with sending inappropriate text messages that escalated into explicit communication, a common grooming tactic. 

Staff raised concerns, but administrators allegedly failed to investigate, allowing the abuse to continue until it led to charges for criminal sexual conduct and a prison sentence. 

The lawsuit also claims the school covered up warnings. Bedford Public Schools, the principal, assistant principal, and Superintendent Carl Shultz are named as defendants. 

Shultz has said any allegation involving harm must be taken seriously, stressing the duty to provide a safe and respectful environment in every school building. 

The case asserts negligence and violations of the student’s civil rights, citing failures to report misconduct, protect students, and train staff. 

As in other school sexual abuse lawsuits, plaintiffs argue that Bedford Public Schools ignored red flags and neglected reporting duties.

How Long Do Victims Have to File Claims Against Bedford Public Schools?

In Michigan, the statute of limitations for civil claims involving sex abuse is set by MCL § 600.5805(6).

In 2025, lawmakers introduced the Justice for Survivors Act (SB 257–SB 261, 2025 Session), aimed at expanding filing windows and ensuring survivors of school abuse have greater access to justice.

Because statutes can change, survivors are encouraged to act quickly. Filing promptly helps preserve evidence and protect the right to compensation.

What Damages Can Be Recovered in a Claim Against the Michigan School District?

Survivors may seek damages for medical care, counseling, therapy, lost educational opportunities, reduced earning potential, and other financial losses.

Courts also recognize the emotional toll of sexual abuse, allowing recovery for pain, suffering, PTSD, and related trauma. In cases of reckless disregard for student safety, punitive damages may also be awarded.

By filing a school sexual abuse lawsuit, victims can hold both the former Bedford teacher and Bedford Public Schools accountable, ensuring failures that allowed sexual misconduct are addressed and survivors receive fair compensation.

Such cases often reveal multiple survivors, underscoring the need to hold the school district accountable for safeguarding the entire school community.

How Injury Lawyer Team Can Help

This case illustrates the harm that can be caused when school leaders fail to take action. Allegations link the abuse to school grounds, where students should have been most protected.

At Injury Lawyer Team, we turn these failures into accountability. Our attorneys review records, policies, and oversight to show how negligence enabled sexual abuse. We also work with trauma experts to strengthen claims and ensure survivors’ voices are heard.

We represent families in school sexual abuse lawsuits, combining compassion with aggressive advocacy. Our firm operates on a contingency fee basis, so clients owe nothing unless we win. 

We also provide free, confidential consultations to help survivors explore their options without pressure.