Boys and Girls Clubs of America promises to provide “safe and fun places for kids to grow and thrive.” Yet the reality of life in these clubs is anything but for many of the children involved. Several lawsuits have been filed against this organization in recent years for failing to prevent and stop sexual abuse despite obvious warning signs.
Attorney Ryan J. Mahoney has represented sexual assault and abuse clients throughout Illinois for over 16 years. Speak to an attorney today by calling (618) 323-2589 for a free and private case review.
A History of Sexual Misconduct in Boys and Girls Clubs of America
Boys and Girls Clubs serves over four million children annually, with a staff of around 65,000 people. Most of the youths who engage in these programs are classified as vulnerable or at-risk. Rather than finding safety and solace, however, these children have been faced with further mistreatment, harassment and sexual abuse at Boys and Girls Clubs locations.
According to a six-month long investigation by Hearst Connecticut Media, 250 people across 30 states alleged that they were sexually abused as children while participating in Boys and Girls Clubs programs. They alleged that staff members, employees and volunteers were their abusers. The investigation also identified 95 criminal convictions and civil lawsuits filed regarding the organization.
The allegations against Boys and Girls Clubs of America involve sexually abusive acts and crimes such as grooming, inappropriate touching of private parts, sexual harassment, indecent exposure in front of children, creation of child sexual abuse material, exposure to pornographic material, forced oral copulation, attempted rape and rape.
Legal Remedies for Boys and Girls Club Sexual Assault in Illinois
Existing lawsuits against Boys and Girls Clubs of America have alleged that the company and its staff members had ample opportunity to put a stop to known incidents of sexual abuse involving the children within its care, yet it did nothing. Although the company has policies and training in place to ensure child safety, in practice, it has historically fallen far short of its promises.
Individuals who have been victimized by sexual predators within a Boys and Girls Club of America have the right to seek justice by taking civil action. In addition to facing criminal charges for the sexual abuse of a child, perpetrators and the company itself can be held liable, or legally and financially responsible, for the damages suffered by the survivor through a civil suit.
Bringing a lawsuit against a Boys and Girls Club in Illinois could lead to financial compensation for losses such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, psychological damage, medical expenses, legal fees, and more. Coming forward with a claim also sheds light on the unsafe and unlawful practices that are still ongoing within this childcare organization.
How a Sexual Assault Attorney in Illinois Can Help
It is understandably difficult for victims of childhood sexual assault to report these crimes, come forward and tell their stories. Pressure, fear, shame and stigmas around sexual abuse can effectively silence victims. When victims find their voices, however, they can become empowered.
If you or your child is a victim of sexual abuse or assault by anyone associated with one of the 24 Boys and Girls Clubs located in Illinois, do not suffer in silence. You deserve to speak your truth and be believed. An experienced attorney can help you with each stage of the legal process, providing personalized care and services along the way to make sure you have everything you need to get through this difficult time.
Contact Us for a Free Sexual Assault Claim in Illinois
Contact a child sexual abuse attorney at Mahoney Law Firm today for a free and entirely confidential case review to discuss your rights. We stand with victims of sexual abuse and assault in Boys and Girls Clubs of America.
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