Following investigations by the Department of Justice and other authorities, Illinois has been named one of the worst states in the country for sexual abuse against minors by staff at juvenile detention and youth centers.
County and state authorities have already paid millions in damages to victims of juvenile detention sexual abuse and closed several facilities. However, experts believe the problems haven’t been properly addressed and thousands of minors are still at risk.
So far, more than 1,000 victims have come forward to file claims, alleging abuse as far back as 1996. However, most victims still don’t know they have legal rights and may be entitled to compensation.
Changes to sexual abuse victim rights laws in Illinois now allow any person who has suffered sexual abuse while under the age of 18 to file a claim for damages up to the age of 38.
Authorities have identified dozens of youth centers and juvenile facilities where sexual abuse may have taken place. They believe state and county agencies will eventually be forced to pay billions in compensation to victims for not properly screening staff or disciplining those accused of misconduct.
Lawyers with the Sexual Abuse Lawsuit Center are currently filing claims on behalf of anyone who suffered abuse at these Illinois facilities.
Find out if your case qualifies.
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Although attention has centered around abuse at Cook County facilities, victims have alleged abuse at many other Youth Detention Centers around the state.
Below is a partial list of the Illinois juvenile detention facilities that are alleged to have allowed abuse of victims:
If you were detained at any of the above facilities, or others throughout the state of Illinois, and suffered sexual abuse, it’s important to speak with a lawyer to learn your rights to file a claim.
Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice reveals 10 juvenile facilities still don’t meet updated standards aimed at reducing sexual abuse.
Lawsuit filed on behalf of 193 victims who were sexually abused, raped or assaulted while minors at Cook County Illinois juvenile detention halls
Franklin County juvenile center is permanently closed after class action lawsuit alleging widespread sexual abuse.
Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice reveals 12 out of 16 state juvenile facilities do not meet standards from the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) aimed at reducing sexual abuse.
Illinois passes law extending the statute of limitations for childhood sexual abuse victims up to age 38.
Release of DOJ National Survey of Youth in Custody report shows Illinois ranks among four worst states for sexual abuse at juvenile facilities
Department of Justice conducts investigation into sexual abuse allegations at seven Illinois juvenile detention centers
St. Clair County agrees to pay $900,000 to settle a lawsuit alleging sexual abuse of a minor inmate by a guard
Supervisor at Illinois Youth Center Murphysboro is charged with felony sexual abuse of minors
Illinois opens the first juvenile detention center in the state, Illinois Youth Center at St. Charles
If you or a family member suffered sexual abuse while at an Illinois juvenile facility, it’s important to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible. They can help determine your legal rights and whether you’re entitled to compensation from the settlement fund.
Our qualified sexual assault lawyers will fully investigate your case, gather evidence and file a claim on your behalf.
Recent changes to Illinois law have extended the time you have to file a childhood sexual abuse lawsuit. However, it is still advisable to file your claim as soon as possible in order to allow your attorney enough time to gather and submit evidence before state and county officials begin disbursing awards for these claims.
Therefore, it’s recommended that you begin the process as early as possible to strengthen your case.
The Sexual Assault Center works only with attorneys and law firms that have successfully handled thousands of sexual assault lawsuits. And, we can connect you directly to a lawyer or victim advocate today, so you’ll be able to decide if you want to proceed.
We make it easy to get help, find out if you qualify, and quickly file a claim. Our service is offered at no cost to you, and you won’t pay anything to your attorney unless you receive an award. Also, our qualified lawyers can handle most aspects of your case without you ever having to leave your home.
For more information, or to learn about your options - call, chat or email us today.