MARTINSVILLE– Attorneys for a victim of former Martinsville teacher Brittany Fortinberry, charged with multiple sex crimes against children, have filed a tort claim against the Metropolitan School District of Martinsville. The claim alleges the district negligently hired and retained Fortinberry, leading to the victim’s abuse.
Fortinberry, 31, faces charges including child molestation and dissemination of harmful material to minors. The lawsuit, filed by Wagner Reese law firm, claims the district ignored “red flags” in Fortinberry’s background, including prior work as an exotic dancer and an OnlyFans account.
Attorneys from Wagner Reese, a personal injury and sexual abuse law firm, allege the district was aware of, or should have been aware of, Fortinberry’s inappropriate behavior before hiring her. They also claim the district failed to report abuse to authorities and alert parents in a timely manner. The victim’s attorneys are seeking $700,000 per sexual assault incident.
The Metropolitan School District of Martinsville released a statement saying they cooperate with law enforcement and prioritize student safety. They stated a standard criminal background check was conducted, revealing no criminal activity, and that Fortinberry’s resignation was unrelated to the sex abuse allegations. The school district reported Fortinberry was hired on Oct. 24, 2023, and resigned on Jan. 9, 2024. The district encourages students and families to use the STOPit anonymous reporting system. They had no further comment on the allegations.
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