Sexual Abuse Allegations Rock Summit Academy, George Junior Republic, and Abraxas Youth & Family Services in PA

Pittsburgh, PA – Three lawsuits filed in Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas on Monday, July 22, 2024, accuse three western Pennsylvania non-profit juvenile detention facilities of failing to protect children from severe sexual abuse.Scope of Allegations Against PA Juvenile Detention CentersThe lawsuits represent 92 individuals who claim they experienced sexual abuse while confined as minors at Summit Academy, George Junior Republic, and Abraxas Youth & Family Services. These facilities, located in Butler, Grove City, Erie, and Marienville, often house children from Allegheny County and surrounding areas.
The alleged abuse spans from 2000 to 2023, with victims ranging from 10 to 17 years old. The lawsuits claim that teachers, staff, coaches, and even a facility doctor perpetrated the abuse.Details of Ongoing Physical and Sexual AbuseThe allegations detail disturbing incidents, including staff members entering showers while juveniles were bathing, pinning them to the ground, and assaulting them in their sleep. Some victims reported being assaulted multiple times during their stay, sometimes on a daily basis.
One particularly troubling allegation from Summit Academy involves a child having their “home pass for Christmas” revoked after resisting an abuser. Another claim states that a staff member broke a victim’s jaw after the victim refused to perform sexual acts.Systemic Failure Alleged as Almost 100 Victims of Child Sex Abuse Come ForwardThe lawsuits argue that Pennsylvania’s juvenile detention system has subjected children to a culture of “exploitation, violence, and rampant sexual abuse” for decades. They claim that widespread reports and investigations into abusive staff were ignored.Response from Juvenile Detention FacilitiesSummit Academy provided a statement saying they had not been made aware of the details of the allegations. As of the time of reporting, George Junior Republic and Abraxas have not responded to requests for comment.Call for Legislative Action to Prevent Abuse at Juvenile Residential Treatment CentersAttorneys highlight that over 100 additional victims born before November 1989 are barred from bringing claims due to Pennsylvania’s Statute of Limitations. They call for legislation allowing survivors of child sexual abuse to seek justice regardless of when the abuse occurred.Legal Pathways for Victims of Abuse in Juvenile DetentionAmidst the recent lawsuits alleging widespread sexual abuse at Pennsylvania juvenile detention centers, experienced sexual abuse lawyer Max Morgan shared some legal guidance. He discussed the legal rights available to victims of sexual abuse at juvenile detention facilities and the steps necessary to hold negligent parties accountable.Laurence Banville, Esq.: Mr. Morgan, what legal options do victims of sexual abuse at juvenile detention facilities have?Max Morgan, Esq.: Victims can file civil lawsuits against the facilities, their operators, and individual perpetrators. These suits can seek compensation for physical and emotional damages, as well as punitive damages to hold negligent parties accountable.Banville: How can these facilities be held responsible for the actions of their employees?Morgan: Facilities can be held liable under theories of negligent hiring, supervision, and retention. If they failed to properly screen employees, ignored red flags, or didn’t respond appropriately to abuse reports, they may be found negligent.Banville: What advice would you give to victims considering coming forward?Morgan: I’d encourage victims to speak with an experienced attorney who can protect their rights and guide them through the legal process. It’s important to know that they’re not alone, and there are legal avenues to seek justice and prevent future abuseReach Out for Support and GuidanceIf you or a loved one has been affected by the alleged abuse at these juvenile detention facilities, know that help is available. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive legal support. Contact us for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your options. Your voice matters, and we are here to stand with you.Source:https://www.wpxi.com/news/investigates/lawsuits-allege-child-sexual-abuse-nearly-100-victims-local-juvenile-detention-centers/3VWMUHEXQJCEBEP3I7S7CYLVNY/