Employees usually don’t expect that much from their employers. Of course, they expect to be paid as agreed and paid on time. But undoubtedly of even greater importance is the basic human expectation that they always be treated with respect. What happens though when a supervisor or other person in authority further crosses the line and not only disrespects an employee, but harasses, makes sexual advances or even sexually abuses and assaults that person?
This kind of conduct is always intolerable and depending on the circumstances, may constitute a criminal offense for which the offender might be punished and jailed. Such acts may also serve as a basis for a personal injury lawsuit that an experienced law firm can file on the victim’s behalf in order to recover monetary damages to help that person move forward on their road to recovery. Both physical and psychological injuries often last a lifetime, and such victims have an absolute right to be compensated.
Lawsuit Filed Seeking Justice on Behalf of Minor
Our law firm, Sexner Injury Lawyers LLC, is privileged to have undertaken legal responsibility for just such a client in a lawsuit recently filed against a municipal entity and other responsible individuals. Our case involves allegations which include the exploitation, grooming, sexual abuse and sexual assault of our minor client while on the job. As a former Cook Couty Criminal Division State’s Attorney himself, Mitchell Sexner and his team of affiliated attorneys are well-positioned to help bring true justice to unjust situations such as these.
The sexual abuse and harassment suffered by our client while employed by this municipal entity was reprehensible. But shockingly, in recent years what has finally come to light is that these types of sexual misconduct, abuse, assault and harassment have undoubtedly been going on for many decades in municipalities across the State of Illinois and across the country.
Illinois Law Recognizes That Sexual Crimes Committed by Those in “Positions of Authority” are Especially Egregious
Children are brought up to respect authority. Teachers, clergy, priests, professors, doctors, nurses, guardians, babysitters, police officers, boy scout leaders, mentors, nursing home attendants, coaches, psychologists, foster parents, DCFS employees and religious leaders are but a few of the many such people that exercise significant influence and control over others entrusted to their care.
These leaders are often looked up to for guidance. Sometimes those within their supervision or care also feel like these people must be blindly obeyed because they have the power to adversely affect their lives in some way. The power of a supervisor to influence whether an employee is promoted or even fired is of course an obvious example. In cases like these, victims often allege that hazing and punishment are commonplace, turning what should have been a dream job for many young people into a nightmare.
This pressure and sense of duty to comply with those holding such positions of power are clearly recognized in Illinois as a ripe opportunity for those with evil intent who wish to capitalize on this power imbalance to exploit those beneath them.
For example and for that reason, the crime of Criminal Sexual Abuse can be elevated from a misdemeanor to a felony called “aggravated criminal sexual abuse” in certain circumstances where the offender “holds a position of trust, authority, or supervision in relation to the victim”.
Speak with an Experienced Legal Team
The legal team at Sexner Injury Lawyers LLC can be reached 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Our talented attorneys have successfully represented other victims of those in “positions of authority” and are already actively engaged in this important litigation, working diligently to help those affected both in Chicago and across the State of Illinois. We can be reached any time of day at (312) 243-9922.
