In May 2024, the Berryessa Union School District agreed to a $10.3 million settlement with former Sierramont Middle School students who alleged sexual abuse by science teacher Ronald Dean Gardner during the late 1990s and early 2000s. The plaintiffs, represented by attorney Lauren Cerri, contended the district had ignored earlier red flags, allowed Gardner to resign rather than discipline him, and kept him in the classroom using an emergency credential without sufficient oversight.
One of the plaintiffs, referenced in the lawsuit as John Doe 1, made particularly harrowing allegations. He stated that the experience forced him to relive traumatic memories and cost him years of his life. He also expressed his gratitude to Ms. Cerri:
I had the privilege of being represented by Lauren Cerri in a very difficult and sensitive civil case. From the very beginning, she showed an exceptional level of professionalism, care, and sensitivity in handling such a deeply personal matter.
She was always prompt in her responses and honest when setting expectations, which gave me a sense of trust and clarity throughout the process. One of the things I valued most was how she allowed me to decide how much or how little I wanted to be kept in the loop at any given time. This was incredibly helpful, as it made an overwhelming process feel more manageable.
Her thoughtfulness and compassion were evident in every conversation we had. She prepared me thoroughly for each step, especially for the difficult moments when I had to face questioning from the defense. Because of her preparation and support, I always felt ready and confident.
What stood out most was her unwavering presence and commitment. She even attended the sentencing of the criminal trial that lead to my civil suit, which was above and beyond what I expected. Having her there was immensely supportive and meant more to me than I can put into words.
I am truly grateful for Lauren’s guidance, professionalism, and care. She not only represented me as a client but also supported me as a person during one of the hardest times of my life. I could not have asked for a better advocate.
John Doe 1
Doe 1 expressed that “there is no amount of money” that could fully compensate for the abuse he endured or the way it altered his life’s trajectory.