LAKEVIEW Parents sue boys in son's assault

The lawsuit says the family has incurred medical expenses of more than $9,000.
By ED RUNYAN
VINDICATOR TRUMBULL STAFF
WARREN -- A Cortland teenager and his parents are asking for damages from the Lakeview schools, three boys and their parents in connection with an assault at the high school football stadium a year ago.
Timothy Wires of Timberline Drive and his parents Karen and Wayne Wires filed a lawsuit Friday in Trumbull County Common Pleas Court.
Named as defendants in addition to the school system are John Scannell of Cherry Hill Lane and his father, Stephen Scannell, and his mother, who is not named; Steve Charnas of North High Street and his parents, Craig and Nancy Charnas; and Jeremy Upshire, whose address is unknown, and his parents, who are not named. There also are 20 more "John Doe" defendants whose identities are not known.
What suit says
The lawsuit states that on Oct. 8, 2004, John Scannell, Steve Charnas and Jeremy Upshire intentionally assaulted, struck and/or pushed Wires.
It states Lakeview High School was responsible for providing security at the school, including security at the football field, where the events took place.
Lakeview Superintendent Robert Wilson said Friday afternoon that he did not have any comment on the lawsuit.
The plaintiffs say Timothy Wires suffered injuries to his face, mouth and other parts of his body and suffered mental anguish, embarrassment, humiliation and fright.
The injuries caused extreme pain and suffering in the past and will likely cause pain and suffering in the future, their court action said. It said the plaintiffs have incurred medical expenses of more than $9,000 so far.
The suit seeks compensatory and punitive damages in excess of $55,000, attorneys' fees and costs.
It alleges the parents of Scannell, Charnas and Upshire failed to exercise control over their sons and failed to exercise reasonable care in the supervision and control of them.
The plaintiffs allege Lakeview schools had a responsibility to protect Timothy Wires from actions of other people on its premises.
The suit states Karen and Wayne Wires suffered the loss of society, companionship, affection, comfort, guidance, counsel and services of their son because of the assault.
The case is assigned to Judge John Stuard.
runyan@vindy.com