Our Firm Represents Abused Teens and Wins
In recent years, there has been a significant surge in lawsuits against teen residential rehabilitation facilities, treatment centers, wilderness programs, conversion therapy camps, and boarding schools, exposing troubling practices and systemic issues within these institutions. These cases often involve allegations of abuse, neglect, inadequate care and even torture, leaving vulnerable youths to suffer under conditions that compromise their well-being and their futures.
If you or a loved one has been affected by such mistreatment, you may be entitled to justice and financial compensation. Sexner Injury Lawyers LLC represents individuals in lawsuits against these facilities, aggressively advocating for the rights of young people who have been abused, assaulted or neglected. In just one such case earlier this year, our law firm was responsible for a $4,000,000 sexual abuse settlement for our client, who was abused as a teenager.
This article will discuss recent litigation in this area and explain how our firm can provide you with the strong legal support that you need. No attorney fees are ever charged until we’re successful on your behalf. We can be contacted 24 hours a day for free help by calling (312) 243-9922.
Lawsuits Filed Against Offending Residential Programs
Recently, there has been a notable increase in legal actions against both state-run and private facilities tasked with “rehabilitating” troubled teens. These lawsuits often highlight severe issues such as physical abuse, emotional trauma, inadequate medical care, and poor living conditions. One such high-profile lawsuit was against Provo Canyon School in Utah, a facility in which Paris Hilton alleges that she was also abused.
But the rise in litigation hasn’t occurred just because these disturbing events are new. In fact, such abuses, and in some cases torture, have been going on for many decades in facilities not just in Illinois, but all across the country from Texas to Tennessee. The recent spotlight can be attributed to greater awareness and reporting of abuse, as well as increased advocacy for the rights of detained and rehabilitating youths. Cable documentaries such as Teen Torture, Inc. have also helped loudly sound the alarm.
Parents’ Good Intentions Sometimes Unfortunately Lead to Serious Consequences
What leads parents and state agencies to refer teens to such facilities are often the best of intentions. Very few parents would ever send their child to a place where they knew torture, abuse or assault was likely to result. But these institutions don’t want people to know what happens within their walls, so this type of information is kept secret from the families, because if the truth was known, no one would pay for their services and these facilities would be shut down.
This is a multi-billion-dollar industry, and it’s estimated that over 100,000 teens are placed in such residential placements each year. High profile celebrities like Dr. Phil have even been known to talk-up places like the Turn-Around-Ranch in Utah for instance. So, it’s no wonder that well-intentioned parents who find themselves “at the end of their ropes” are often misled into sending a child to such a facility.
Sexner Injury Lawyers LLC can help guide you through the process of obtaining justice for these wrongs. Survivors are usually left with depression, anxiety, PTSD and other psychological damage. Although what has happened at these places cannot be undone, the large monetary settlements which we secure for our clients can help them obtain the best medical and psychological treatment available as they reach for a brighter, healthier future. Call our legal team anytime at (312) 243-9922.
What are Some Examples of These Abuses?
In one high-profile case, a facility faced numerous allegations of abuse and neglect. Plaintiffs in this case claimed that the facility’s staff subjected them to physical violence, including excessive restraint and isolation, which led to long-term psychological trauma. The lawsuit also revealed serious deficiencies in the facility’s medical care (medical malpractice), with allegations that needed treatments were often delayed or denied. The case resulted in a significant settlement and led to reforms in how the facility operates, underscoring the importance of holding such institutions accountable.
Another recent case involved a facility known for its overcrowding and inadequate conditions. Allegations included poor sanitary conditions, insufficient food, and inadequate educational and recreational opportunities. The plaintiffs argued that the overcrowded conditions contributed to a higher incidence of violence and mental health issues among residents. This case brought attention to the systemic problems associated with overcrowded juvenile detention centers and led to a landmark ruling requiring substantial changes to improve living conditions.
Some other examples of abuses at boot camps and residential rehabilitation facilities include:
- Strip-searches
- Physical restraints
- Beatings
- Humiliation
- Sedation with antipsychotics
- Solitary confinement (“time-out” room)
- Waterboarding
- Conditions leading to high incidence of suicide attempts
- Forced labor
- Sexual assaults, sexual abuse & rape
- Confined to outdoor dog cages
- Exercised to exhaustion
- Forced to eat their own vomit
- Exposed to extreme temperatures
- Deprived of food
- Deprived of adequate sleep
What are Some Examples of Settlement and Verdict Amounts?
Victims of abuse, neglect, assault, sexual violence and torture absolutely deserve to be compensated for the wrongs done to them. Maximum monetary damages are necessary so that our clients can afford the best doctors and mental health professionals in their journey towards wellness. Some examples of recent amounts recovered include:
- $100,000,000 –from Miracle Meadows Boarding School in West Virginia alleging solitary confinement, beatings, rapes and starvation.
- $2,500,000 – from Spring Ridge Academy in Arizona alleging physical and mental abuse at this “tough love” boarding school
- $38,000,000 – from Youth Development Center in New Hampshire alleging beatings, rape and solitary confinement
- $4,000,000 – from the state of Maryland for abuses suffered at boot camps intended to reform troubled teens through discipline and military-style training
- $7,400,000 – from the State of Florida related to the death of a 14 year old after being repeatedly kicked by boot camp guards
- $1,495,000- from Mesabi Youth Facility in Minnesota related to abuse and neglect
Legal Rights of Teens in Residential Placement
If you or a loved one has experienced mistreatment in a teen rehabilitation or detention facility, it is crucial to understand your legal rights and options. Here are some key points to consider:
- Protection from Abuse: Youth in detention facilities have the right to be free from physical and emotional abuse. Facilities are required to maintain a safe environment and provide appropriate supervision.
- Adequate Medical Care: Facilities must ensure that residents receive timely and adequate medical care, including treatment for chronic conditions and emergencies.
- Educational and Recreational Opportunities: Detained youths are entitled to access educational programs and recreational activities to support their development and well-being.
- Mental Health Support: Facilities must address the mental health needs of residents, including providing access to counseling and psychological support.
Steps to Take if You Suspect Abuse or Neglect
- Document Everything: Keep detailed records of any incidents or concerns, including dates, descriptions, and any evidence of mistreatment.
- Seek Medical Attention: Ensure that any physical or emotional injuries are documented and treated by medical professionals.
- Report the Abuse: File a complaint with the facility’s administration and relevant oversight bodies. Additionally, reporting to child protective services or similar agencies can trigger an investigation.
- Consult with an Attorney: Reach out to a law firm such as Sexner & Associates LLC experienced in handling cases against teen rehabilitation and detention facilities to discuss your options for legal action.
Speak Today to our Experienced Legal Team
Sexner Injury Lawyers LLC has a proven track record of successfully representing clients in lawsuits against those that would abuse, sexually assault, torture or otherwise mistreat not only teens and children, but adults as well. Our team of dedicated attorneys is committed to advocating for the rights of all people and holding perpetrators accountable for their actions. We represent many such victims, but we are currently also accepting new clients, and your consultation is always free. Here’s how we can help:
Experienced Legal Representation
Our attorneys are well-versed in the complexities of cases involving juvenile facilities. We understand the legal and regulatory framework governing these institutions and are skilled at navigating the legal system to achieve the best possible outcomes for our clients.
Thorough Investigation
We conduct comprehensive investigations to gather evidence and build a strong case. This includes interviewing witnesses, obtaining medical records, and documenting conditions at the facility. Our goal is to uncover the truth and hold those responsible accountable.
Advocacy and Support
We are dedicated to providing compassionate and effective representation. We work closely with our clients to understand their experiences and needs, offering support throughout the legal process. Our firm is committed to ensuring that our clients receive the justice and compensation they deserve.
Pursuing Compensation
We seek to secure maximum compensation for our clients, which may include damages for physical and emotional injuries, medical expenses, and other losses. Additionally, we advocate for systemic changes to prevent future abuse and improve conditions for other youths in similar situations.
Fighting for Reform
Beyond individual cases, we are committed to advocating for broader reforms in juvenile detention and rehabilitation systems. By pursuing litigation and raising awareness, we aim to contribute to meaningful changes that protect and support young people in these facilities.
Time Limitations May Apply
A “Statute of Limitation” refers to a law which dictates the maximum period of time that a person has (from the date that the event occurred) in order to sue someone before their right to litigate expires and they can no longer initiate a lawsuit. In Illinois, for most personal injury cases, that time limitation is 2 years. In some cases though, it is shorter and in other cases it is much longer (especially for children). There are even some situations involving injuries such as sexual abuse in which there are no limitations at all.
But regardless of your circumstances, it is always very important for you to quickly determine what time limitation applies to your situation so that you can preserve your right to file a lawsuit.
Conclusion
The fight for justice in cases involving teen rehabilitation and juvenile detention facility abuse is critical and complex. If you or a loved one has experienced mistreatment or neglect whether it was at such a facility or whether it was at the hands of someone such as a priest, teacher, employer, medical professional, coach, or nursing home employee, it is essential to promptly seek legal advice and take action to hold the responsible parties accountable.
At Sexner Injury Lawyers LLC, we stand ready to provide your family with the very best legal representation and support. Contact us today and explore your options. Together, we can work towards a future where all young people receive the care and respect they deserve.
For more information or to discuss your case, please visit our website or contact us directly at (312) 243-9922. Our dedicated team is very experienced and ready to assist you in your pursuit of justice.
