Massachusetts Woman Sues Town Over Alleged Sexual Assault by Immigrant Business Owner
A Massachusetts woman has filed a lawsuit against the town of Hopkinton, claiming that local officials improperly allowed a convicted immigrant with a history of sexual violence to operate a business where she was sexually assaulted at age 16. The case has raised significant concerns about public safety and the responsibilities of local authorities in vetting business operators.
Why It Matters
This lawsuit underscores the vital role that municipalities play in ensuring the safety of their constituents, especially in environments frequented by minors. It raises critical questions regarding the thoroughness of background checks for business licenses and the implications of ignoring prior convictions in public safety matters.
Key Developments
- Charges Against Sismanis: Petros "Peter" Sismanis, a Greek national, is currently in the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) following his conviction in 2025 for the sexual assault of the plaintiff.
- History of Offenses: Sismanis has a documented history of sexual offenses, including a 1998 conviction for crimes involving minors, which led to his registration as a sex offender.
- Fostered Environment: The lawsuit alleges that officials, including the police chief, allowed a hazardous working environment at Hillers Pizza, where the assault took place in 2023.
- Damages Sought: The plaintiff is seeking $1 million in damages for the alleged failure to protect her and others.
Full Report
Allegations of Negligence
The plaintiff, now 19 years old, claims that Hopkinton officials and the management of Hillers Pizza were aware, or should have been aware, of Sismanis’s criminal background when his business license was renewed in 2016. The lawsuit suggests that this lack of due diligence contributed to a sexually hostile environment for young female employees.
Court documents reveal that after the assault in the pizza shop, Sismanis allegedly attempted to coerce the plaintiff and her mother to avoid contacting law enforcement, fearing for his immigration status. "He would rather be killed than have the police involved," the lawsuit claims.
Official Response
A lawyer representing Hopkinton officials stated that the town acted within legal and constitutional boundaries concerning Sismanis’s business license renewal. Douglas Louison emphasized that they were sympathetic to the plaintiff’s situation but maintained that local authorities had no justification to question Sismanis’s eligibility at the time.
Criminal Background
In addition to the recent allegations, Sismanis has been convicted of indecent assault and battery and is required to register as a sex offender. The lawsuit highlights that Hopkinton police reportedly received previous complaints about Sismanis’s behavior from staff at his business.
Context & Previous Events
In 1997, Sismanis faced charges for rape and indecent assault, which led to his classification as a sex offender in Massachusetts. Prior to operating Hillers Pizza, he managed a donut shop in the same town, where he was accused of sexually assaulting employees. Despite these serious allegations, officials reportedly failed to consider his background when permitting his ongoing business operations.
The town of Hopkinton’s response to this incident may have broader implications for how public safety is prioritized in local governance, particularly concerning businesses frequented by minors.
