Cambridge Springs, PA – A 49-year-old ex-corrections officer from Meadville faces serious allegations of sexually assaulting two female inmates at the State Correctional Institution (SCI) at Cambridge Springs. Alfonzia Newsome was arraigned Tuesday, July 31, 2024, on multiple charges, including institutional sexual assault, indecent assault forcible compulsion, and harassment.
Allegations and Investigation into Sexual Abuse in PA Prison
Pennsylvania State Police claim Newsome inappropriately touched two inmates between December 11, 2022, and August 16, 2023, while employed as a corrections officer at SCI Cambridge Springs. The investigation began in July 2023 after reports of alleged abuse by a corrections officer surfaced.
According to court documents, two inmates reported that Newsome had touched them inappropriately below the waist while standing at their cell entrances. One inmate stated she was victimized on two separate occasions.
Accused Correction Officer Employment History and Termination
Newsome’s employment with the Department of Corrections ended on November 30, 2023. He had initially been hired at SCI Albion in June 2020 before transferring to SCI Cambridge Springs in December 2022.
Legal Proceedings After Prison Correction Officer Accused of Sexually Abuse
Following his arraignment, Newsome was released on nonmonetary bond. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for August 13. If convicted, he could face up to seven years in prison and a $15,000 fine for each institutional sexual assault count, among other potential penalties.
About SCI Cambridge Springs
SCI Cambridge Springs, one of two state prisons for women in Pennsylvania, can accommodate up to 1,060 inmates and employs about 350 full-time staff. The facility opened in 1992 on the former site of Alliance College.
Legal Recourse for Prison Sexual Abuse Victims
The recent allegations of sexual assault at SCI Cambridge Springs have brought attention to the complex issue of inmate rights and institutional accountability. As the case against former corrections officer Alfonzia Newsome unfolds, questions arise about the legal options available to victims of sexual abuse within correctional facilities. To address these concerns, we spoke with Guy D’Andrea, a seasoned Pennsylvania attorney specializing in sexual abuse cases. In this interview, D’Andrea offers valuable information on the legal pathways open to inmates who have experienced sexual abuse and explains how negligent institutions can be held responsible for failing to protect those in their care.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: Mr. D’Andrea, what legal options do inmates have if they’ve been sexually abused in prison?
Guy D’Andrea, Esq.: Inmates who have been sexually abused can file civil lawsuits against the perpetrator and the correctional facility. These suits can seek compensation for physical and emotional damages. Additionally, victims can cooperate with criminal investigations, which may lead to charges against the abuser.
Banville: How can negligent parties be held accountable in these situations?
D’Andrea: Correctional facilities can be held liable if they failed to properly screen employees, ignored warning signs, or didn’t respond appropriately to reports of misconduct. This could include inadequate background checks, failure to investigate complaints, or improper supervision of staff. In some cases, higher-level administrators or the state department of corrections might also be held responsible for systemic failures.
Banville: What advice would you give to victims in this situation?
D’Andrea: I encourage victims to report abuse to prison authorities and law enforcement. It’s also important to document any evidence and seek medical attention if needed. Consulting with an attorney experienced in handling prison abuse cases can help victims understand their rights and navigate the legal process. Time limits often apply to filing claims, so acting promptly is key.
Reach Out for Support and Guidance
If you or a loved one has experienced sexual abuse in a prison setting, know that you are not alone. There are legal avenues available to seek justice and hold accountable those responsible for such misconduct. We encourage victims and their families to contact us for a free consultation. Our team is here to provide support, answer your questions, and help you navigate the legal process with compassion and understanding. Your rights matter, and we are committed to helping you find the path forward.
Source:
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
