U.S. Twirling Association Liable for 2019 Abuse of 17-Year-Old Member
A New York federal jury recently awarded $4.2 million to a sexual abuse survivor. The young 17-year-old girl was raped after she was drugged while away at a twirling competition under the supervision of the United States Twirling Association (USTA). Child sexual abuse must be stopped by holding predators accountable.
This landmark decision marks a significant triumph for childhood sexual abuse survivors. This decision underscores the accountability of large organizations for their negligence, sending a powerful message that such abuses won’t be ignored.
It’s a pivotal moment for survivors and advocates, reflecting a broader commitment to justice and change.
If you or a loved one was sexually assaulted in Maryland while you were under the supervision of a governmental agency, medical facility, or organization, you may have a case.
Our team at The Yost Legal Group understands the courage it takes to come forward. We are here to offer our unwavering support and legal guidance.
When you are ready to share your story, please contact us for a confidential and compassionate consultation. You can call or text us at 410-659-6800.
A Twirling Champion’s Trip to Lima: Not the Dream Journey She Expected
In 2019, the at-the-time 17-year-old baton-twirling champion (identified only as “Jane Doe”) went on an all-expenses-paid trip to Lima, Peru, with other American competitors and members of the United States Twirling Association (USTA).
The Lima Lions Club, the Lima, Peru branch of the international service organization, hosted the event. It should have been perhaps the best experience of the young twirler’s life.
She was a champion being recognized and rewarded for her hard work and talent. She likely thought she was taking a trip of a lifetime to do the thing she loved most. Unfortunately for the 17-year-old Ms. Doe, it did not turn out to be the trip of a lifetime.
According to court documents from Doe v. United States Twirling Association, the president of the Lima Lions Club—identified in documents only as Jacobo G.—wasted little time taking the twirlers and their chaperone, Koralea Slagle, out to parties and clubs where the underaged twirlers, especially Doe, were served copious amounts of alcohol and little to no water.
Victory for Survivor in USTA Sexual Abuse Lawsuit
Doe’s testimony stated Jacobo pursued her aggressively and worked to separate her from the rest of the group.
This culminated at one of the events where “Doe was given a cocktail, which, according to the suit, contained a drug that made her feel ‘dazed, confused, and scared.'” Texts and phone calls she made to her family the night of the event corroborated her recount.
That night, Jocobo sexually assaulted the minor, Ms. Doe, in her hotel room after she was likely drugged via the cocktail she consumed.
In September 2022, Doe filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Twirling Association, USTA President Karen Cammer, and chaperone Koralea Slagle.
After a 25-week trial that concluded in the spring of 2024, a New York federal jury ruled in favor of Doe. This was a significant victory for childhood sexual abuse survivors everywhere. It established an important example that negligence by large organizations that leads to sexual abuse will not be swept under the rug.
USTA Found Negligent in Doe’s Abuse Case, Jury Rules
The jury rendered a $4.2-million verdict for Doe—a significant award for the brave survivor who wanted to hold the USTA accountable and hoped to limit the possibility that what happened to her could happen to someone else.
In a released statement after the verdict, Doe said:
“If I stayed silent, the USTA would have never taken accountability for their actions. I have reclaimed my voice by sharing the truth but continue to work towards healing. Athletes are not disposable, and their dignity and safety should never be sacrificed.”
Powerful words from a brave survivor.
Understanding the Prevalence of Child Sexual Assault in Institutional Settings
Child sexual assault is a deeply disturbing issue that affects many lives across the United States. It becomes even more alarming when such heinous acts occur in places where children should feel safe and protected.
Child molestation occurs at juvenile detention centers, medical facilities, and large organizations more than you can imagine.
For victims and their families, understanding the prevalence of these assaults within institutional settings is crucial. We all need to raise awareness and advocate for change to ensure that protective measures are put in place.
The first step in addressing child sexual assault within institutions is acknowledging its occurrence. Statistics indicate that while exact numbers can be challenging to ascertain due to underreporting and varied definitions of abuse across states, thousands of cases are reported annually.
Child Sexual Assault in Juvenile Detention Centers in Maryland
Juvenile detention centers have been identified as particularly vulnerable environments due to factors such as overcrowding, lack of surveillance, and inadequate staff training.
According to a study by the Bureau of Justice Statistics, nearly 10% of youth in these facilities report experiencing sexual victimization by staff or other residents during their stay.
Were you molested in a juvenile correctional facility in Maryland? You have rights, and a top personal injury law firm can protect them. Seek a free and confidential consultation.
Teenager Rape in Medical Facilities in Maryland
Medical facilities also present unique risks for child sexual assault. The trust placed in healthcare professionals can sometimes be betrayed when boundaries are crossed.
Reports have surfaced over the years about instances where children have become victims during medical examinations or treatments.
These situations highlight the need for stringent protocols and transparent communication between medical practitioners and guardians or parents.
Child molestation claims are being handled by some of the best lawyers for personal injury. If you or a family member have questions about filing a sexual assault claim, please give us a call. We are here to answer your questions and provide the support and guidance you need.
Child Sexual Abuse in Large Organizations in Maryland
Large organizations that serve children—such as schools, camps, sports leagues, and religious institutions—are not exempt from this issue either. The organizational structure can sometimes allow predators to exploit authority positions or access opportunities with insufficient oversight.
High-profile cases involving trusted mentors or leaders emphasize the importance of ongoing training for staff members alongside robust reporting systems that encourage whistleblowers without fear of retaliation.
Were you sexually assaulted by a teacher? Were you molested by an athletic coach? An experienced legal team can file a personal injury claim on your behalf. You may be entitled to a significant financial recovery.
Ready to Talk? The Yost Legal Group Here to Listen
If you or a loved one was sexually abused as a minor in Maryland, you may have a case. Talking about one’s own experience with sexual assault and rape is very difficult.
We understand the pain and pressure the memories may cause. It can seem like an unbearable weight. But there is hope, and you are not alone. Our lawyers for victims of assault seek justice against the perpetrators of sexual misconduct.
The Yost Legal Group is here to listen and help. If you are ready to talk, call or text us today at 410-659-6800 for a free consultation. All communication is confidential. Our abuse lawyers can take legal action in the state of Maryland to protect your rights.
No matter how long ago the abuse happened, the new Maryland Child Victims Act removes the statute of limitations on child sexual abuse claims.
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