San Antonio, TX – Jacob Cuellar, 44, the former CEO of Laurel Ridge Treatment Center, has been arrested and charged with continuous sex abuse of a child under the age of 14. The allegations state that Cuellar sexually assaulted a young girl over a period of years.
Indictment and Arrest of RTC Employee for Child Sex Abuse
A grand jury indicted Cuellar earlier this week, leading to the issuance of an arrest warrant. Authorities apprehended Cuellar on Thursday, June 13, 2024. The indictment outlines two alleged aggravated sexual assaults and one count of indecency with a child involving contact with the same victim.
Details of Sexual Abuse Charges Against CEO of Youth Behavior Center in TX
According to online case records, the alleged offenses date back to 2022. The charges against Cuellar are serious, with continuous sexual abuse of a child under 14 being a felony offense. The abuse allegations were brought to the attention of a family member by the 11-year-old victim in March of 2023.
Conditions of Release and Bail
Cuellar posted a $75,000 bond on Friday and was released from jail. His release comes with strict conditions that he is prohibited from contacting anyone under the age of 17, except for specific listed family members, and he is not allowed to possess firearms
Changes at Laurel Ridge Treatment Center Following Sexual Abuse Allegations
Following Cuellar’s arrest, Laurel Ridge Treatment Center has removed him from his position as CEO. The facility’s website now lists Chris Barela, the chief financial officer, as the acting interim CEO.
KSAT has reached out to Laurel Ridge for comment on Cuellar’s arrest, but has not yet received a response.
Legal Rights and Accountability for Survivors of RTC Sexual Abuse
In a recent interview, we spoke with Anjali Nigam, an experienced Texas RTC sex abuse lawyer, about the legal rights available for those sexually abused by an employee at a youth behavior health treatment center. Nigam offered valuable information on the legal options available to those who have suffered sexual abuse at youth behavioral health treatment centers. She also explains how victims can hold negligent institutions accountable, providing a roadmap for those seeking to navigate the complex legal landscape surrounding these sensitive cases.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: Anjali, what legal rights do victims of sexual abuse by an employee at a treatment center have?
Anjali Nigam, Esq.: Victims have the right to seek justice through both criminal and civil courts. In civil cases, they can file lawsuits against the individual perpetrator and the institution that employed them if it can be shown that the institution was negligent in hiring or supervising the employee.
Banville: How can victims hold negligent parties accountable?
Nigam: Victims can hold negligent parties accountable by demonstrating that the institution failed to conduct proper background checks or ignored warning signs about the employee’s behavior. Successful lawsuits can result in compensation for the victim’s physical, emotional, and psychological harm, and they also serve to raise awareness and prevent future incidents.
Banville: What steps should a victim take if they want to pursue legal action?
Nigam: Victims should contact a specialized attorney who can guide them through the process. It’s important to gather any evidence and document the abuse. Legal professionals can help navigate the complexities of the legal system and ensure that the victim’s rights are protected.
Support and Legal Guidance for Victims and Families
The allegations against Jacob Cuellar serve as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of young patients in residential treatment centers. If you or a loved one has experienced sexual abuse in a youth behavioral health facility, remember that you are not alone, and legal support is available. Our team of experienced attorneys specializes in handling these sensitive cases with compassion and dedication. We offer free, confidential consultations to help you understand your rights and explore your legal options. Don’t let fear or uncertainty prevent you from seeking the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact us today to speak with a knowledgeable advocate who can guide you through the process and help you take the first step towards healing and accountability.
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Mr. Banville is a personal injury attorney who has experience in handling auto accidents, work injuries, medical malpractice, dog bites, slip and falls, and representing survivors and victims of sexual abuse. Mr. Banville is affiliated with law firms in Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, D.C., and Maryland. Abuse Guardian
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