DC principal placed on administrative leave, facing suit for mocking student who claimed sex assault

WASHINGTON - A D.C. high school principal is under administrative leave, officials say, after she reportedly mocked a student who made a sexual assault claim.

The Washington Post reported Wednesday that Roosevelt High School Principal Aqueelha James is now the subject of a lawsuit for reportedly mocking a student who made claims of sexual assault.

The Post reports James initially promised a swift and thorough investigation in a June meeting with the freshman student and her mother. However, during the meeting the girl became upset and left the room and her mother went out to comfort her, leaving a recording device that captured what school officials said next.

James reportedly can be heard in the recording mocking the girl's clothes and saying she planned to "embarrass her ass" by casting doubt on her credibility with police.

School officials and police did investigate but no charges were filed.

In a letter sent to Roosevelt High parents and students, Interim Chancellor Dr. Amanda Alexander said "DCPS does not tolerate sexual misconduct or harassment in our schools, and I am committed to sensuring that proper protocols are followed when allegations are made."

Dr. Alexander went on to say that DCPA will be "looking further into this matter to ensure a comprehensive review of our response and systems.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.