The civil sexual abuse trial of Camden School Advisory Board President Wasim Muhammad involved allegations of sexual abuse of a former student who was a minor at the time. The plaintiff claims that the abuse began when she was in 7th grade and continued for several years. She testified about the traumatic experiences she endured and questioned why Muhammad would engage in such behavior. Muhammad, on the other hand, denied the allegations, calling them heinous.
During the trial, Muhammad testified about his unconventional marital relationships, stating that he has six “religious wives,” four of whom he met when they were 18 years old. He described his marriages as an exception to the rule and acknowledged that his lifestyle is controversial. The plaintiff’s lawyer pointed out a pattern in Muhammad’s relationships with younger women, raising questions about his behavior and character.
Muhammad claimed that he married the plaintiff in 1997, but she denies that they were ever married. He stated that they entered into a marital relationship when she returned from out of state and began living with him. Muhammad’s legal marriage is with his high school sweetheart, Stephanie, and he has four other wives under his Islamic faith. The plaintiff’s lawyer highlighted the significant age difference between Muhammad and the women he married, suggesting a concerning pattern of behavior.
Despite Muhammad’s denial of any wrongdoing, the plaintiff detailed the abuse she allegedly suffered at his hands, including being taken to a porn theater and made to have sex with a stranger while he watched. She expressed confusion and distress over why Muhammad would engage in such behavior with a minor. The trial brought to light the complexities of Muhammad’s personal life and raised questions about his judgment and morals.
Muhammad’s tenure on the Camden school board, where he has served for over a decade, came under scrutiny as a result of the allegations against him. He has been on a leave of absence since January, and the trial has had significant implications for his career and reputation. The closing arguments of the civil trial were expected to take place soon, with both sides presenting their final arguments in a case that has garnered public attention and raised important questions about abuse of power and trust in educational institutions.