California Woman Awarded $5.6 Million After Illegal Prison Strip Search

Christina Cardenas endured invasive searches and sexual assault during a prison visit, leading to new protections for visitors.

Christina Cardenas was subjected to invasive searches during a visit to her husband in a California prison.
Despite no evidence of contraband, she endured humiliating procedures, including a strip search and medical examinations.
A male doctor sexually assaulted Cardenas during one of the medical procedures.
The lawsuit argued that the actions were meant to intimidate and deter her from visiting her husband.
The settlement includes new policies to protect visitors' rights during prison visits.