The safety and well-being of children in care should be paramount. Yet, disturbing allegations have emerged concerning the potential sexual abuse of vulnerable youth within San Diego County's juvenile detention facilities, youth residential treatment centers (YRTC), and children's shelters.

If you or someone you know experienced such trauma while residing in one of these facilities, it's crucial to understand your rights and the possibility of seeking justice and compensation.

At our firm, we are dedicated to providing compassionate and effective legal representation to survivors of alleged sexual abuse. We understand the sensitive nature of these cases and are committed to handling them with the utmost discretion and respect.

This page provides essential information for victims and their families in San Diego County.

Understanding the Allegations of Abuse

Recent reports and legal filings detail deeply concerning allegations of sexual abuse perpetrated by staff members within various San Diego County facilities.

These allegations span decades and involve numerous individuals under these institutions' care and supervision.

According to a recent article in the San Diego Union-Tribune, "The county is facing lawsuits by at least two dozen people who say they were sexually assaulted as children and teens by probation officers while confined in the county’s juvenile detention facilities..." (San Diego Union-Tribune, February 16, 2025).

These lawsuits describe alleged incidents in bathrooms, showers, and individual cells.

Furthermore, allegations extend beyond juvenile detention centers.

As reported by CBS 8 San Diego, "...former foster children who say they were sexually abused while they stayed at a San Diego County emergency shelter for kids spoke out Friday morning," concerning the Polinsky Children's Center (CBS 8 San Diego, February 16, 2024).

A lawsuit involving numerous plaintiffs alleges that staff members sexually abused children over a significant period. It is important to reiterate that these are allegations, and the ongoing legal process.

However, understanding one's legal options is a critical first step for those who may have experienced such abuse.

Who May Be Eligible to Seek Justice?

You may be eligible to seek justice and compensation if you meet the following criteria:

1. Residency: You were a resident at one of the following San Diego facilities:
   • Juvenile Detention Facilities: San Diego Juvenile Hall, Kearny Mesa Juvenile Detention Facility, East Mesa Juvenile Detention Facility, Rancho del Campo Juvenile Ranch, Del Rayo Juvenile Ranch, Girls Rehabilitation Facility, Camp Barrett.
   • YRTC Facilities: Sharp Mesa Vista Hospital, Aurora Behavioral Health, Phoenix House Academy.
   • Children's Shelters: Polinsky Children's Center.
2. Abuse by Authority: You were allegedly sexually abused by a guard, staff member, or other individual in a position of authority within the facility.
3. Age at the Time of Abuse: You were 17 years old or younger at the time the alleged abuse occurred.
4. Current Legal Representation: You do not have an attorney for this potential claim.

If you meet these criteria, we encourage you to contact our firm for a confidential consultation to discuss your situation and legal options.

Why Legal Representation Matters

Navigating the legal system can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with sensitive and traumatic experiences.

Having experienced legal representation can provide numerous benefits:

• Protecting Your Rights: An attorney will protect your rights throughout the legal process.
• Investigating Your Claim: We can thoroughly investigate to gather evidence and build a strong case.
• Expert Negotiation: Our attorneys have the skills and experience to negotiate effectively with opposing parties.
• Seeking Fair Compensation: We will fight diligently to pursue the compensation you may be entitled to for the harm you have suffered.
• Providing Support: We offer compassionate and understanding support throughout the legal journey.

Understanding Your Legal Rights in California

California law has specific provisions in place to protect victims of childhood sexual abuse.

Notably, a 2019 state law expanded the statute of limitations, providing more time for survivors to file civil lawsuits.

This law allows individuals to file civil suits until they are 40 years old or within five years of discovering a connection between the abuse and psychological harm experienced in adulthood (San Diego Union-Tribune, February 16, 2025).

This change has been instrumental in allowing many survivors to come forward and seek justice.