Lawsuit Reveals Allegations of Abuse at Charles H. Hickey, Jr. School Affecting Nearly 70 Children
A shocking lawsuit has emerged from Maryland, alleging severe negligence within the juvenile justice system. The Maryland Department of Juvenile Services (DJS) faces claims related to the abuse of approximately 69 children at the Charles H. Hickey, Jr. School. This facility, which has been under scrutiny, was initially opened in the 1800s with a mission to provide refuge for juvenile offenders. Unfortunately, many allegations suggest that it failed in its duty to protect vulnerable youth.
The civil complaint, filed by Slater Slater Schulman LLP, outlines a harrowing pattern of abuse purportedly committed by Ronald Neverdon, who served as a housing unit manager and supervisor from the mid-1960s to the mid-1990s. It is claimed that Neverdon exploited his authority to isolate and assault children, with incidents reportedly occurring in various locations throughout the facility, such as his office, residents’ rooms, and even outside the premises.
Adam Slater, the Founding Partner of the representing law firm, emphasized the gravity of the situation, noting how the children entrusted to the DJS were let down by a system that was meant to protect them. These young individuals were subjected to repeated trauma without any protective measures in place. The institution has a long history, having been the first in Maryland designed to keep juvenile offenders away from adult inmates. However, the allegations reveal a legacy marred by the continued abuse of power and neglect by state authorities.
The lawsuit highlights the claims that DJS representatives were aware of ongoing abuse concerns but failed to enforce necessary supervision and safeguard the children in their charge. Neverdon is accused of using threats and manipulation to deter victims from coming forward, instilling fear by suggesting they would face terrible repercussions for speaking out.
For many survivors, now in their 50s and 60s, this abuse has left indelible scars. They recount a sense of helplessness as they navigated their grim reality behind closed doors. Benjamin Davis, Managing Attorney at Slater Slater Schulman, has stated that the Maryland Child Victims Act, passed in 2023, serves as a vital lifeline for these adults to seek justice, particularly as it has allowed retroactive legal action for historically silenced claims.
The lawsuit comes at a critical juncture, as it follows the Maryland Supreme Court's recent validation of the Child Victims Act's constitutionality. This decision not only opens the door for past victims but also sets a precedent encouraging others who endured similar traumatic experiences to step forward. It shines a light on the institution's longstanding culture of silence and neglect, offering survivors a chance to reclaim their voices.
The DJS, tasked with fostering safe environments for young offenders, has been under scrutiny for its inability to shield the children under its care from predatory behavior by its staff. The allegations are further compounded by investigations that have continually raised red flags about institutional practices within the juvenile justice system.
As details of the lawsuit unfold, it brings forth a compelling narrative of resilience amidst a backdrop of systemic failure. The plaintiffs seek accountability not just for themselves but to advocate for future generations who may fall victim to similar abuses. With their cases now gaining public attention, the attorney representing them affirms that they are resolutely committed to pursuing justice.
The civil complaint, filed by Slater Slater Schulman LLP, outlines a harrowing pattern of abuse purportedly committed by Ronald Neverdon, who served as a housing unit manager and supervisor from the mid-1960s to the mid-1990s. It is claimed that Neverdon exploited his authority to isolate and assault children, with incidents reportedly occurring in various locations throughout the facility, such as his office, residents’ rooms, and even outside the premises.
Adam Slater, the Founding Partner of the representing law firm, emphasized the gravity of the situation, noting how the children entrusted to the DJS were let down by a system that was meant to protect them. These young individuals were subjected to repeated trauma without any protective measures in place. The institution has a long history, having been the first in Maryland designed to keep juvenile offenders away from adult inmates. However, the allegations reveal a legacy marred by the continued abuse of power and neglect by state authorities.
The lawsuit highlights the claims that DJS representatives were aware of ongoing abuse concerns but failed to enforce necessary supervision and safeguard the children in their charge. Neverdon is accused of using threats and manipulation to deter victims from coming forward, instilling fear by suggesting they would face terrible repercussions for speaking out.
For many survivors, now in their 50s and 60s, this abuse has left indelible scars. They recount a sense of helplessness as they navigated their grim reality behind closed doors. Benjamin Davis, Managing Attorney at Slater Slater Schulman, has stated that the Maryland Child Victims Act, passed in 2023, serves as a vital lifeline for these adults to seek justice, particularly as it has allowed retroactive legal action for historically silenced claims.
The lawsuit comes at a critical juncture, as it follows the Maryland Supreme Court's recent validation of the Child Victims Act's constitutionality. This decision not only opens the door for past victims but also sets a precedent encouraging others who endured similar traumatic experiences to step forward. It shines a light on the institution's longstanding culture of silence and neglect, offering survivors a chance to reclaim their voices.
The DJS, tasked with fostering safe environments for young offenders, has been under scrutiny for its inability to shield the children under its care from predatory behavior by its staff. The allegations are further compounded by investigations that have continually raised red flags about institutional practices within the juvenile justice system.
As details of the lawsuit unfold, it brings forth a compelling narrative of resilience amidst a backdrop of systemic failure. The plaintiffs seek accountability not just for themselves but to advocate for future generations who may fall victim to similar abuses. With their cases now gaining public attention, the attorney representing them affirms that they are resolutely committed to pursuing justice.
Topics Policy & Public Interest）
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