MMA calls allegations made in lawsuit detailing sexual abuse by student false

By: Ryan Shiner

EDITOR'S NOTE: This article has been edited to reflect updated information

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ) -- Missouri Military Academy in Audrain County claims allegations made in a lawsuit filed this week are false.

A lawsuit filed on Wednesday accuses the school of negligence and negligent supervision. Court documents filed by the plaintiff claimed a student complained to the school on Aug. 31, 2025, that his roommate “engaged in improper sexual conduct and solicited sexual favors.” 

The school then allegedly moved the accused teenager to a room with a 12-year-old boy and was accused of repeatedly sexually abusing the boy.

MMA denied the allegations in a Friday statement sent to ABC 17 News in an email.

“Upon becoming aware of any alleged incident of misconduct, we immediately initiate an investigation in accordance with our established procedures and notify parents. As necessary, we involve appropriate outside agencies. At no point has any evidence suggested wrongdoing by MMA, as the lawsuit alleges,” the statement from MMA President Richard Geraci says. "The Academy intends to vigorously defend this matter."

A summons was issued for the school on Thursday.