Hi - I’m Aaron. I’m an experienced sexual abuse attorney licensed to practice law in Maryland. I actively help survivors of sexual abuse get the justice and compensation they deserve. My team and I are ready to help.
The Thomas Waxter Children's Center, a former juvenile detention facility in Laurel, is now at the center of multiple sexual abuse lawsuits in Maryland. These legal actions have been made possible by the recently enacted Maryland Child Victims Act, which has opened the door for victims to seek justice, even decades after the alleged abuse occurred.
The Thomas Waxter Children's Center, operational from the early 1950s until January 2022, was Maryland's largest female juvenile detention and correction facility. At its peak, it had a capacity of 165 inmates and provided secure detention for female juvenile offenders awaiting court decisions or placement in long-term facilities.
A group of 50 individuals has come forward with accusations of childhood sexual abuse within Maryland's juvenile justice facilities, including Waxter. These lawsuits detail disturbing instances of repeated rape and molestation of minors under state care, with some victims reporting incidents from as early as age seven.
The Maryland Child Victims Act, which took effect in October 2023, has significantly changed the landscape for sexual abuse victims:
Juvenile detention centers like Waxter can be held liable for negligence in failing to protect children under their care. This includes cases where abuse was perpetrated by staff members or other inmates under circumstances that should have been managed or prevented by the facility.
Victims of childhood sexual abuse at Waxter or any other juvenile detention facility now have the opportunity to file civil lawsuits and seek financial compensation. The removal of the statute of limitations allows victims to come forward regardless of when the abuse occurred.
Aaron Blank, Esq., a seasoned attorney at Abuse Guardians, comments on the situation: "The lawsuits against the Thomas Waxter Detention Center represent a significant step towards justice for victims of childhood sexual abuse. The Maryland Child Victims Act has provided a crucial opportunity for survivors to seek the compensation and closure they deserve. At Abuse Guardians, we are committed to supporting these victims and holding institutions accountable for their failure to protect vulnerable children. It's important for anyone affected by abuse at juvenile detention centers to understand their rights under this new law and to seek legal counsel to explore their options for justice."
If you or a loved one has experienced sexual abuse at the Thomas Waxter Children's Center or any other juvenile detention facility, it's crucial to consult with experienced legal professionals. Contact Abuse Guardians today for a confidential consultation and to learn more about your rights under the Maryland Child Victims Act.
Source:
https://www.lawsuit-information-center.com/thomas-waxter-detention-center-sexual-abuse-lawsuit.html