Child sexual abuse lawsuit Archives -

Standing Together Against Institutional Child Sexual Abuse

Posted on February 2, 2025 by Loni Liss

At The Yost Legal Group, we are dedicated to standing up for individuals who experienced institutional sexual abuse as a minor. Tragically, facilities such as juvenile detention centers, schools, after-school programs, camps, and religious institutions have been sites of unthinkable abuse that have deeply impacted countless lives.

Here is a client review from Ryan, a brave survivor of child sexual abuse.

“Having to come forward as a victim of childhood sexual abuse was one of the scariest, most difficult things I have ever done. When I reached out to The Yost Legal Group, Kerry was there for me in a way that made the experience more personal and meaningful than I had imagined it would be. She walked me through my past experiences at my own pace and made me feel comfortable in the present moment. If anyone has experienced trauma as a result of childhood sexual of any kind, I encourage you to reach out to The Yost Legal Group and let them know what you’re going through.” Ryan G.

In a world where justice is often elusive for survivors of childhood sexual abuse, finding a beacon of hope can be life-changing.

The Yost Legal Group is deeply committed to advocating for individuals like Ryan, who have bravely shared their stories.

Break the Silence. Reclaim Your Voice. Find Justice.

Tragically, many government institutions have been breeding grounds for child sexual abuse. The perpetrators of child molestation must be brought to justice.

Our mission is to provide the support and legal guidance necessary to help survivors find justice and peace. For those who may feel alone in their journey, we want you to know that you are never alone—we stand by your side every step of the way.

The prevalence of institutional sexual abuse is both heart-wrenching and alarming. Facilities meant to nurture and protect children sometimes become places where innocence is shattered.

Survivors like Ryan remind us that these abuses leave deep emotional and psychological wounds that require comprehensive healing approaches beyond just legal action.

Ryan’s courage in coming forward speaks volumes about the resilience of survivors who seek justice, not only for themselves but also in hopes of preventing future abuses.

Healing Starts with Justice—Contact Us for a Free Consultation.

The Yost Legal Group’s approach begins with compassionate understanding and personalized care. We recognize the enormous bravery it takes for survivors to relive painful memories in pursuit of justice.

Our team includes experienced professionals who are well-versed in dealing with sensitive cases involving adults who were abused as minors. They work closely with each client to ensure their stories are heard, and their rights are vigorously protected.

One key aspect that sets us apart is our commitment to creating a safe environment where clients feel empowered throughout the legal process.

Providing an empathetic and supportive experience highlights our dedication to making this difficult journey as bearable as possible for our clients.

We are an experienced law firm handling child sexual abuse claims. The Child Victims Act of Maryland eliminates the statute of limitations on Maryland sexual abuse cases.

You Are Not Alone—Find Support and Legal Guidance Here.

Each case is treated with utmost confidentiality and respect, focusing on the unique needs of each individual.

Furthermore, pursuing financial recovery plays a critical role in helping survivors rebuild their lives post-abuse.

Compensation can cover therapy costs, education expenses disrupted by trauma, or other life necessities impacted by past experiences.

At The Yost Legal Group, we fight tirelessly for fair compensation because we understand its importance in facilitating long-term healing.

Lastly, advocacy extends beyond individual cases; it involves raising awareness about institutional reforms needed to prevent abuse from happening again.

Part of our mission includes advocating for policy changes within these institutions—ensuring they implement stronger measures against potential perpetrators while fostering safe environments conducive to growth rather than fear.

Reporting Child Abuse in Maryland

How is Child Abuse Defined in Maryland Law?

Abuse is defined in Maryland law as “the physical or mental injury of a child by any parent or other person who has permanent or temporary care or custody or responsibility for supervision of a child, or by any household or family member, under circumstances that indicate that the child’s health or welfare is harmed or at substantial risk of being harmed; or

sexual abuse of a child, whether physical injuries are sustained or not. Sexual abuse is defined as any act that involves sexual molestation or exploitation of a child by a parent or other person who has permanent or temporary care or custody or responsibility for supervision of a child, or by any household or family member.”

Knowing the warning signs of abuse is crucial to identifying when a child may be in danger and taking immediate action. Below are key physical and behavioral indicators to be aware of.

Child Sexual Abuse Warning Signs

A child may be a victim of sexual abuse if they exhibit the following signs:

Difficulty walking or sitting, often without an apparent physical injury.
Bleeding, bruising, or swelling in the genital area.
Sudden refusal to attend school or participate in regular activities.
Reports of nightmares or bed-wetting, particularly if sudden or recurring.
Self-harming behaviors, such as cutting, burning, or other forms of self-injury.
Sudden changes in appetite or indications of an eating disorder (e.g., binge eating or severe restriction).
Unusual sexual knowledge or behavior beyond their developmental age or inappropriate sexual behavior toward others.
Pregnancy or sexually transmitted diseases (especially in children under age 14).
Running away from home without a clear explanation.
Reports of sexual abuse by a parent, caregiver, or another adult.
Overly quick attachment to strangers or new adults, creating a pattern of dependency or seeking approval.

Your action can make a critical difference and ensure a safer environment for the child.

The Maryland Department of Human Services has provided the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR), which defines child abuse.

Seeking Justice After Institutional Sexual Abuse? Let us Help.

The journey from being a victim to feeling empowered after childhood sexual abuse in institutions is challenging but possible. If you are a child sexual abuse survivor, we will stand by you, support you, and guide you towards justice.

As Ryan’s story demonstrates, his path toward achieving justice represents hope amidst adversity.

Contact our child sexual abuse lawyers by calling 1-800-967-8529 or filling out the form on this page. A compassionate representative will contact you shortly to discuss your situation. Your voice matters; you deserve justice.

University of Maryland University College Creating … / university-of-maryland-university-college-creating.pdf / PDF4PRO. https://pdf4pro.com/amp/view/university-of-maryland-university-college-creating-54a.html

Reporting Child Abuse | Towson University. https://www.towson.edu/public-safety/police/report-crime/child-abuse.html

PA May Change Child Sexual Abuse Law

Posted on September 1, 2024 by Loni Liss

More Than 20 States Have Recently Reformed Their Statute of Limitation for Child Sexual Abuse

Pennsylvania law allows survivors of childhood sexual abuse to file civil lawsuits against their abusers up to the age of 55.

Their law is similar to the law that existed in Maryland for years until Governor Wes Moore signed Maryland’s Child Victims Act of 2023 in April of that same year.

Maryland’s new law removed the statute of limitations (SOL) for all childhood sexual abuse survivors. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro is looking to sign a similar bill into law for his state despite pushback and stalling in the Pennsylvania Senate.

What defines child sexual abuse?

Child sexual abuse is a serious issue that must be clearly understood and addressed. It’s important to tell the difference between cases with minors and those with adults. Cases with an adult and a child under the age of 15 are child sexual abuse.

PA Laws on Child Sexual Abuse

The statute of limitations on sexual abuse in PA is no one can legally have sex with anyone under the age of 15. Any sexual act, including sexual abuse in school, sexual abuse by teachers, or a sexual act by a school employee, is 100% illegal.

Statutory rape, which is being molested as a minor, can sadly affect the survivor’s mental health for years to come.

A legal option is to file a criminal and/or civil claim to recover financial compensation.

Clear Definition: Child sexual abuse occurs when an adult engages in sexual activities with a minor.
Age of Consent: A minor is defined as anyone below the legal age of consent in their state. They cannot legally consent to sexual activities with an adult.
Adult Responsibility: The responsibility to prevent these interactions lies entirely with the adult.

Recognizing these fundamentals helps in identifying and preventing child sexual abuse, ensuring the protection of children, and upholding their rights.

In Pennsylvania, the age of consent is 16 years old. However, teens above the age of consent but below the age of 18 still cannot consent to sexual relations with an adult when there is an imbalance of power.

Statutory Sexual Assault occurs when there is a significant age difference between partners and one is below the age of consent. It’s considered a felony if:

One partner is 13, and the other is 17 or older
One partner is 14, and the other is 18 or older
One partner is 15, and the other is 19 or older

What is Institutional Sexual Assault in PA?

In Pennsylvania, certain relationships have power imbalances that make consent impossible, no matter the age of those involved. It’s a felony called institutional sexual assault when someone in a position of authority, like a teacher or coach, engages in sexual activity with someone at a school, jail, group home, or any other licensed facility for youth.

For example, a 17-year-old cannot consent to sexual relations with their doctor, employer, or teacher. Coaches, jailers, and religious advisors also fall under this “power imbalance” designation.

Pennsylvania refers to those kinds of situations as “institutional sexual assault.”

What Are Different Types of Child Sexual Abuse?

“Sexual abuse” is an umbrella term, but there are two main types that a specific act of sexual abuse could be categorized as physical and non-physical.

Physical forms of child sexual abuse include touching a minor’s genitals, having a child touch someone else’s genitals, penetration of an orifice, or even just kissing.

The physical forms of sexual abuse are straightforward because they are readily apparent. They can be observed and communicated.

Non-physical forms of child sexual abuse include showing pornographic material to a minor, exposing someone’s genitals to a minor, forcing a minor to expose their genitals, or taking explicit photos of a minor.

The non-physical forms of child sexual abuse can be more difficult to explain when survivors are ready to report their experience. Another term for some of this non-physical child sexual abuse is “grooming.”

Predators can groom a child by exposing them to sexual content, material, and situations without actively touching them. It is emotional and mental abuse and manipulation that is meant to familiarize the child with explicit content in hopes of taking advantage of them later on.

But let there be no mistake about it: Grooming a minor is a form of non-physical child sexual abuse. It is illegal.

If you or a loved one was sexually abused as a minor in the state of Pennsylvania, you have until the age of 55 to file a civil lawsuit against your abuser. However, there is hope that the state’s lawmakers can pass their version of a “Child Victim’s Act” to remove the statute of limitations for childhood survivors of sexual assault.

Call or text The Yost Legal Group today if you have any questions or concerns: 410-659-6800.

Facts About Childhood Sexual Abuse

Child sexual abuse is a severe and pervasive problem worldwide. In the U.S., according to the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN), child protective agencies receive a verified report or evidence of such abuse every nine minutes.

Annually, more than 65,000 children fall victim to sexual abuse. This number represents individual children, not just reports or incidents. It’s a truly staggering figure.

Even more distressing is that many of these children experience multiple instances of abuse over a year.

Approximately 25% of adult women report being survivors of child sexual abuse. While the figure for men is lower at about 7.5%, this still equates to one in thirteen men, highlighting a significant and troubling issue.

Impact of Childhood Sexual Abuse on Survivors

Experiencing childhood sexual abuse is classified as an adverse childhood experience (ACE). Such traumatic events can have enduring effects on both the mental and physical health of survivors.

Research published in 2021 by Frontiers in Neuroscience highlights that survivors are at a higher risk of engaging in behaviors like drug use and self-harm. The study also notes that survivors face an increased likelihood of contracting sexually transmitted infections during their lifetime.

Furthermore, information from HIV.org emphasizes the importance of immediate intervention within the first 72 hours following a sexual assault to prevent HIV.

Girls who survive childhood sexual abuse also face the added risk of unwanted pregnancies, posing further complications to their well-being.

Common adverse side effects to surviving childhood sexual abuse:

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Depression
Suicidal ideation
Eating disorders
Substance abuse

If you or a loved one is a survivor of childhood sexual abuse in the state of Pennsylvania, you have until the age of 55 to seek legal justice against your abuser and the institution that harbored them. Contact the compassionate lawyers at The Yost Legal Group today for a free consultation.

Will a “Child Victim’s Act” pass in Pennsylvania?

As mentioned, in Pennsylvania, survivors of childhood sexual abuse have until the age of 55 to file a civil suit against their abuser. That is the statute of limitation. Once a survivor turns 56, their statute has expired. There is no legal action a survivor can take from there.

Some people think giving survivors time up to the age of 55 is more than enough. However, the data does not back up that opinion because of a phenomenon called “delayed disclosure.”

In a 2020 paper titled “Delayed Disclosure,” Child USA, a national think tank for child protection, found that “the average age at the time of reporting child sex abuse is about 52 years.”

Fifty-two years might be lower than Pennsylvania’s statute, but fifty-two years was the average. With the average at fifty-two years, there are thousands of people every year who report for the first time who are older than 52 and even older than 55.

They should not lose their right to seek justice on the technicality of a few years. They are the survivors of a heinous crime and deserve their chance at justice when they feel they are prepared for it.

Child USA’s findings remained consistent in their 2024 “Delayed Disclosure” factsheet.

51% of survivors first disclosed their abuse between the ages of 50 and 69, much higher than the second-place age group of ages 30 to 49, which accounted for 17% of disclosures.

Pennsylvania’s Fight for Justice: Extending Abuse Survivor Protections

It is incumbent upon the politicians of Pennsylvania to pass whatever law is necessary to give survivors the appropriate time to come forward. A statute of limitations cutoff at 55 simply is not sufficient given everything we know about the psychology and trauma of surviving childhood sexual abuse.

Some members of Pennsylvania’s legislature are pushing for change. However, others are steadfast in their stance on not changing the statute.

Governor Shapiro had some choice words for those who wish to hinder progress:

“I think it’s shameful, and I’ve said this many times, that the Senate of Pennsylvania has failed to act, has been unwilling to look these survivors in the eye and pass a statute of limitations window to allow those who’ve been abused to confront their abusers in a court of law.”

The Yost Legal Group’s child sexual abuse lawyers are closely monitoring Pennsylvania’s statute of limitations window. If a new law is created, childhood sexual assault survivors will be able to seek justice at any time. Our sexual abuse attorneys will take cases to help them fight against their abusers.

Were you sexually abused as a minor in Pennsylvania? the compassionate sexual abuse survivor lawyers at The Yost Legal Group are here to help, listen, and provide guidance. Call or text today at 410-659-6800.

Thomas Waxter Juvenile Detention Center Child Sexual Abuse Claims

Posted on July 15, 2024July 15, 2024 by Loni Liss

It is a heartbreaking reality that child sexual abuse occurs in juvenile detention centers across Baltimore. Vulnerable young individuals should be protected against molestation in juvenile jails, but often they are not.

The trauma of child sexual abuse in Baltimore juvenile detention centers is being addressed through legal action, advocacy, and support services.

By law, DJS is a child-serving agency responsible for assessing the individual needs of referred youth and providing intake, detention, probation, commitment, and after-care services.

The mission of Thomas J.S. Waxter Children’s Center was to provide a high standard of services, including education, mental health, substance abuse, and recreation, within a safe and secure environment. The state-owned facility closed in 2022.

Former residents of the Thomas Waxter Juvenile Detention Center have reported instances of staff members sexually abusing children for years. These claims include inappropriate touching, coerced sexual acts, and other forms of child exploitation.

Exposing the Hidden Abuse in Juvenile Detention Centers

Many survivors have shared their stories and are seeking justice for the trauma they endured while in the facility.

They are speaking out about their experiences and advocating for accountability. The survivors are seeking legal action to hold the facility responsible for the harm they experienced.

They are determined to seek justice for the trauma they suffered while under the facility’s care. These claims are not isolated incidents. They are part of a larger issue of abuse in juvenile detention centers nationwide. This problem is widespread and affects many facilities across the country.

Holding Those in Power Accountable for Abuse in Juvenile Facilities

In these facilities, vulnerable youth can be targeted and exploited by those in charge because of power dynamics. This cycle of abuse must be addressed, and accountability must be held for those responsible.

For survivors of child sexual abuse at the Thomas Waxter Juvenile Detention Center, seeking support and healing is crucial. There are resources available, such as therapy, support groups, and legal assistance, to help individuals navigate their experiences and seek justice. It is important for survivors to know that they are not alone and that there is help available to them.

One of our clients had a horrifying experience at Thomas JS Waxter Children’s Center. His experience serves as a stark reminder of the horrors that take place behind closed doors. We must stop rape in juvenile detention centers.

Survivors who want to share their stories to help others.

When our client was ten years old, he was incarcerated at Thomas Waxter Children’s Center. After he arrived, a staff member named Mr. Smitty subjected him to repeated sexual abuse in 1989. He would pull our young client into his sleeping area and rape him.

Mr. Smitty then began to bring in another gentleman named Mr. Rogers. Our client was subjected to serious physical injuries as a victim of sexual assault.

Eventually, Mr. Smitty went on to work at Shake and Bake, a local roller skating rink in Baltimore.

Repeated sexual assaults at the juvenile detention center ruined our client’s life. His experience at such a young age highlights the urgent need for accountability and reform within Baltimore’s juvenile detention system.

The trauma inflicted upon our client had long-lasting consequences, leading to struggles with incarceration, substance abuse, and trust issues. Our sexual abuse lawyers are committed to breaking the cycle of child abuse through legal action and support for survivors.

Are You a Survivor of Child Sexual Abuse?

The prevalence of child sexual abuse in Baltimore juvenile detention centers is a systemic issue that demands attention and action from both the city and state authorities. Survivors deserve justice, validation, and compensation for the unimaginable harm they have endured.

The Maryland Child Victims Act of 2023 offers hope for survivors to come forward, seek legal recourse, and hold perpetrators accountable for their heinous actions. The Child Victims Act removes the statute of limitations for sexual assault victims.

If you are a survivor of child sexual abuse in a Baltimore juvenile jail, know that you are not alone.

The Yost Legal Group is here to provide compassionate legal representation and support as you navigate the path toward justice and healing. Our dedicated team understands the complexities of these cases.

We will fight tirelessly on your behalf to ensure that your voice is heard and your rights are upheld.

Coming forward to tell your truth can start the healing process.

Your story matters, your pain is valid, and you deserve justice. By reaching out to us at 1-800-Yost-Law, you can take the first step towards reclaiming your power. Men and women have come forward to understand the legal process.

You can seek accountability and justice for those responsible for your suffering. There is no cost to speak with us; we work on a contingency fee basis. We only get paid if we secure a successful recovery on your behalf.

At The Yost Legal Group, we have experienced attorneys for child sexual abuse. They will work with you at your pace and within your comfort level. All information is held completely confidential, and your case can be filed confidentially.

If you suffered abuse as a minor in a juvenile jail, we can file a sexual abuse case for you. A sexual assault lawyer will work closely with you to file a lawsuit.

We’re holding Baltimore Juvenile Detention Centers accountable.

Survivors have the right to seek justice, heal from their wounds, and hold those responsible accountable for their actions.

By standing together as a community of survivors and allies, we can create a safer future for all vulnerable individuals who enter the juvenile justice system.

Call our sexual abuse attorneys at 800-967-8529 for a free consultation. We will explain your rights under the Maryland Child Victims Act and let you know what to expect when we file a claim on your behalf.

A child abuse lawyer will stand by you during the entire process. Contact us today so we can work to seek compensation for you.

We proudly and passionately defend sexual assault survivors. Your story matters – let us help you rewrite it with strength, courage, and resilience.

Child Sexual Abuse Lawyer – Sexual Abuse Lawyers Near Me – Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

Personal Injuries – Medical Treatment – Pain and Suffering

Tag: Child sexual abuse lawsuit