Maryland Faces Thousands of Lawsuits Over Juvenile Sexual Abuse
Featuring: Macayla McDonald
Team Leader
Macayla collaborates with the Communities of Hope Student Media Challenge team to address mental health issues within the juvenile justice system.
We will be discussing a recent story our Solutions Journalism Network team did research on over the past week. We would like to give a trigger warning for discussion of child abuse and sexual abuse. While this topic is uncomfortable, it is important to be discussed and bring awareness to the issue at hand.
A report by Amanda Hernandez revealed that Maryland is facing thousands of lawsuits related to sexual abuse in juvenile detention centers, under a 2023 law called the Child Victims Act. This law removes the 20-year time limit for survivors to sue public and private institutions for abuse that happened during their childhood.
The article highlights the story of Avery Faut-le-roy, who was sexually abused by correctional officers during his stay at Charles H. Hickey Jr. School in Maryland. His experience reflects a problem across the country, where juvenile facilities have faced repeated abuse allegations. Since the law passed, over 3,500 people have filed suits in Maryland.
While the law helps survivors seek justice, state officials worry about the financial burden, especially with Maryland facing a $3 billion budget gap. Lawmakers are considering changes to limit damages and define abuse claims more narrowly, sparking debate among advocates.
The investigation also notes that similar lawsuits and reforms are happening nationwide as state update laws to extend the time survivors have to come forward. Experts say juvenile facilities often lack oversight and are dangerous to vulnerable youth.
More information and resources can be found at rhodeislandcurrent.com or by contact the National Sexual Abuse Hotline at 800-656-4673.