Seeking Justice: 23 Survivors Unite Against Childhood Abuse in New Jersey

On March 27, 2025, attorneys from Levy Konigsberg, Amber Long and Rebecca Kimmel, took a vital step in the fight for justice by filing a lawsuit on behalf of 23 courageous individuals who endured childhood sexual abuse at Daytop New Jersey. This legal action sheds light on a troubling history within the institution, where the safety and well-being of minors were compromised due to gross negligence.

Daytop New Jersey is known for its adolescent substance abuse treatment programs, a facility that was supposed to provide healing and support for vulnerable youths. Unfortunately, these young residents became victims of sexual exploitation by staff members who were entrusted with their care. The lawsuit reveals that the State of New Jersey played a significant role in this tragedy, as many of the plaintiffs were sent to Daytop through court mandates linked to state programs. This referral system forced these individuals into a treatment environment that was supposed to offer protection but instead subjected them to horrific abuse.

The legal complaint details a grim reality: many of these young survivors faced not only sexual abuse but also systemic issues that exacerbated their suffering. With inadequate oversight and a failure to supervise, Daytop allowed the very individuals responsible for the safety of these children to perpetrate acts of abuse. This created an environment where the cycle of trauma continued unabated, leading some victims to grapple with addiction as they sought to numb the pain of their experiences.

As the lawsuit progresses, it highlights a critical legislative backdrop—the New Jersey Child Sexual Abuse Act of 2019. This law extended the statute of limitations, allowing former patients of Daytop and similar facilities a chance to seek reparation for abuses that happened many years ago. Levy Konigsberg's legal team has emerged as a key ally for survivors, guiding them through the complexities of the legal system as they pursue both justice and healing.

Partner Amber Long expressed her outrage at the situation, stating, "It is appalling that the very adults charged with safeguarding our clients were the ones who betrayed that trust. The pervasive abuse at Daytop reflects not only a failure on the part of the institution but also on the state that entrusted these children to such an environment without proper oversight."

This sentiment resonates with the plaintiffs, who courageously stepped forward to demand accountability. By coming together, they not only shine a light on their individual stories but also advocate for broader change to ensure such atrocities do not continue. Their fight for justice is steeped in the hope of preventing future harm to others who may find themselves in similar circumstances.

Levy Konigsberg's commitment to representing survivors of sexual abuse extends beyond this case, as they continue to drive forward on multiple fronts. They call out not only Daytop but also other residential treatment facilities that have faced allegations of abuse. As part of this mission, the firm emphasizes the importance of visibility and advocacy within the legal sphere.

Individuals impacted by similar experiences are encouraged to learn more about their rights and explore potential claims. Levy Konigsberg’s team is ready to support and provide legal assistance, assuring potential clients of confidentiality and a compassionate approach to every case.

As the lawsuit unfolds, the hope is that it will inspire others to come forward and support a much-needed dialogue about safeguarding minors in treatment facilities. The courage of these 23 survivors marks not only a personal battle for justice but a communal call for systemic change within institutions that are meant to protect our most vulnerable populations.