The heartbreaking story of Sammy Teusch, a 10-year-old boy from Indiana who reportedly died by suicide in May 2024, has brought renewed attention to the devastating impact of bullying. Sammy’s parents, Sam and Nicole Teusch, have filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the Greenfield-Central Community School Corporation and its Board of Trustees, alleging negligence in addressing repeated bullying of their son

Bullying Allegations

The lawsuit claims Sammy was subjected to intense bullying, including being cruelly nicknamed “Dahmer”, referencing serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer. When this was reported to a teacher, the lawsuit alleges the teacher dismissed the concern, stating Sammy “somewhat resembled Jeffrey Dahmer.”

Sammy endured further torment, including being:

Chased and harassed during breakfast periods.
Physically assaulted, resulting in injuries such as a black eye and neck strain.
Mocked and ridiculed while teachers allegedly blamed Sammy for the bullying, labeling it a “Sammy problem.”

The parents state they reported approximately 20 instances of bullying to school staff but claim these concerns were largely ignored.

A Call for Accountability

Sammy’s parents argue the school district and staff exhibited “callous indifference” and failed to act on reports of bullying. Their lawsuit states:

“Despite knowledge of the continued bullying and harassment, the District did not take appropriate corrective action. This callous disregard for Sammy’s safety exasperated him, at one point telling [his father], ‘They don’t listen to me daddy.’”

The lawsuit also alleges systemic victim shaming and blaming by school officials, who attributed the bullying to Sammy’s perceived “mental problems.”

The Tragic Day

On May 5, 2024, Sammy’s bullies allegedly threatened him, saying they would “get him” after the weekend. Later that day, Sammy’s 13-year-old brother, Xander, found him deceased in their home.

The Teusch family is seeking justice to ensure no other child endures the pain Sammy experienced.

School District’s Response

In response to the lawsuit, the Greenfield-Central Community School Corporation has issued statements expressing sympathy but denying any negligence:

“To this day, we have found nothing to validate the allegation you referenced. We believe an objective review of the records would reach the same conclusion.”

Despite these claims, local police have confirmed that bullying occurred before Sammy’s tragic death, prompting an ongoing investigation.