Overview

• Since the elimination of the statute of limitations for child sexual abuse lawsuits in Maryland, 200 victims have come forward alleging abuse in juvenile detention facilities.
• The recent wave of litigation includes allegations spanning from 1969 to 2017, with some facilities still in operation.
• Victims report being offered rewards for silence or threatened with violence, while some facilities failed to investigate or discipline staff members.
• Maryland lawmakers are considering rolling back some juvenile justice reforms in response to an increase in youth crimes, amidst criticism that it could lead to more incarcerations.
• The Child Victims Act, which enabled these lawsuits, is facing a constitutional challenge that could delay proceedings.