The landscape of teen violence has now ensnared a Chandler school district principal, who has been placed on administrative leave amidst a storm of legal actions. In recent developments, a $6 million Notice of Claim has been filed against the Chandler Unified School District. The claim points its finger at gross negligence, accusing the principal’s stepson of both making threats and executing an attack on a victim at a Gilbert In-N-Out back in August 2023, as reported by FOX 10 Phoenix.
The principal, Jamie Lander, named in multiple lawsuits, is part of the fallout of teen violence gripping the East Valley. According to legal documents, Lander’s stepson was allegedly involved in an assault at a Mesa park, in addition to the In-N-Out incident. Court records obtained by 12News, suggest that the teen not only participated in the attacks but also delivered threatening messages to the victims.
As the notice of claim unfolds, details emerge that the victim of the violence has since relocated overseas for safety reasons. Richard Kuehner, father of the victim, has been trying to get the attention of authorities — from school officials to police — but to no avail. Lawyer Billie Tarascio, who is following the teen violence investigations, criticized the handling of these threats, suggesting a failure of the system to protect the victim, stating in an interview, "No one has protected him."
Amid the turmoil, Chandler Unified School District issued a statement, declaring its stance on fostering a safe educational environment and condemning the violence. "The District is both appalled and saddened by the serious reports of threats and violence occurring within our community, particularly among our youth," the district conveyed, emphasizing its disciplinary role and cooperation with local authorities. The district, constrained by legal and personnel confidentiality, refrained from further comment on pending litigation, while stressing the intent to address misinformation when permissible, as documented by FOX 10 Phoenix.
The allegations and resulting administrative leave have stirred up parental concern, with parents voicing fervent opinions at a recent school board meeting. One community member stated, “This district’s silence on Mrs. Lander’s involvement has been consistent and deafening," in a display of escalating frustration over the district's handling of the issue. Chandler Unified School District, however, maintains its legal position of silence in relation to personnel matters and ongoing litigation, leaving the community seeking answers in uncertain times.
