CHARLES H. HICKEY JR. SCHOOL SEXUAL ABUSE LAWYERS
GGH Law represents survivors of sexual abuse at the Charles H. Hickey Jr. School in Maryland. Our attorneys are ready to listen and help you understand your options. SEE IF YOUR CASE QUALIFIES
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Introduction
The Charles H. Hickey Jr. School in Baltimore, Maryland has recently attracted a lot of negative attention after a number of reports surfaced detailing the systematic abuse of youth. What was meant to function as a rehabilitation center among the youth is now said to have been heavily embroiled with sexual and physical abuse scandals for many years.
Survivors’ of such abuse have come forth to reveal the abuse they were subjected to. It is unsettling how there were no steps taken to ensure none of this occurred in the first place. These cases serve as both a call for justice and a demand for systemic reform in youth facilities across Maryland. You can bet the underbelly of this place will take the entire community to reevaluate what actually happened there.
The details of abuse reported herein were from the report filed into DOJ unless otherwise indicated.
2023
- In 2023, former inmates filed lawsuits against the state of Maryland, specifically the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services, arguing that due to there being no supervision, abuse was common. Now media attention to these juveniles’ cases has helped in demanding accountability regarding the pervasive issues which affect the juvenile detention centers in the state. These advocacies demand policy amendment, better staff training and stricter accountability measures.
2010–2020
- Additional survivors and witnesses report abuses that transpired over several years, pointing to a long-standing pattern of mistreatment and negligence within the facility. Investigations into the school during this period suggest deeply ingrained problems in the administration’s handling of staff conduct, as well as their failure to implement proper protocols that would safeguard detainees from harm.
- The DOJ investigation highlighted a pattern of violence at Hickey, with multiple incidents involving brutal physical force by staff. In January 2004, for instance, Maryland State Police filed criminal assault charges against two Hickey staff members who assaulted a youth. When the youth kicked his door in frustration after a room search, a staff member slapped him in the face, and another attempted to wrestle him to the ground. By holding the young person from behind and repeatedly hitting him with a closed fist, one staff member escalated the situation. Only hours after being left with obvious wounds, the young person was examined by medical personnel, who noted facial injuries that were consistent with serious assault.
Early 2000s
- Male inmates have reported that two officers at the school would break into their cells at night and beat and sexually assault them. Survivors recount incidents in which employees who were supposed to keep them safe instead turned into their abusers, frequently causing injuries serious enough to require medical care. One survivor recounts being dismissed by a medical professional, who questioned the credibility of his injuries, leading to a traumatic cycle of mistrust and suffering.
- Multiple instances of sexual abuse, involving both staff and other detainees, were documented. The DOJ found that Hickey staff frequently ignored signs of abuse and failed to intervene effectively. In several reported cases, detainees were sexually assaulted by peers while staff either turned a blind eye or were inadequately trained to handle such incidents.
- The DOJ investigation highlighted a consistent failure by Hickey staff to report instances of sexual abuse to authorities. This lack of response emboldened abusers and created a climate of fear, where victims were often too intimidated to come forward.
- Other allegations arose of staff members engaging in inappropriate sexual conduct with detainees, often under the guise of disciplinary actions or private meetings. These incidents were rarely documented, and when reported, staff often faced minimal repercussions, perpetuating a cycle of abuse.
- The DOJ documented cases where detainees were left unsupervised for extended periods, leading to instances of sexual assault among youth. Staff, in some cases, were found asleep or absent during shifts, which allowed these assaults to occur unchallenged and unchecked.
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The legal journey in sexual abuse cases requires more than just expertise—it requires empathy, sensitivity, and an unwavering commitment to justice. At GGH, we understand the profound impact that sexual abuse has on survivors and their families. We stand firm in our belief that survivors of sexual abuse have the right to seek justice, hold perpetrators accountable, and begin the process of healing.
The GGH team is dedicated to ensuring that survivors' voices are heard and their stories respected. We are here to help you navigate the legal process with care and confidence, advocating for the justice and closure you deserve.
Contact GGH Today for a free consultation at (312) 728-7444 or contact us online.
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