Many youth organizations formed for the betterment of children have been publicly and legally scrutinized in recent years for allegations of perpetrating sexual assault and abuse. They have failed to protect children from dangerous members of their organization. Investigations have revealed that organizations working directly with children tend to be magnets for sexual predators.
The Boys Scouts of America, the nation’s foremost youth program, has a staggering number of legal claims filed against them by victims of all ages. It is reported that by the end of 2020, the deluge of sex abuse cases filed included more than 95,000 victims in civil and class action lawsuits. Unfortunately, it is suspected that many victims have yet to step forward and voice their experiences of abuse at the hands of a Boy Scouts staff member.
The Emotional and Psychological Effects of Sexual Abuse
The Boy Scouts of America has more than 4500 clubs and 2.3 million children enrolled in their programs throughout the nation. Their mission statement is “To enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.” In contrast, the trauma of sexual abuse under their watch has been emotionally, physically, and financially destructive. It has tarnished the lives of innumerable children, affecting many long into adulthood.
According to the National Child Traumatic Stress Network, surviving sexual assault and abuse manifests long-term consequences. Some of these include:
- Depression
- Lack of trust issues
- Separation anxiety
- Anger and oppositional disorders
- Nightmares and other sleep disorders
- Eating disorders
- Addictions
- Inappropriate sexual behaviors towards others
History of Sexual Assault and Abuse in the Boy Scouts of America
Although often concealed from the public, there has been a known and documented risk of sexual abuse in youth organizations for decades. The Boys Scouts of America has been keeping files on pedophiles since 1920. However, their policy was not to report predators to law enforcement, just to let them leave the organization. Consequently, these predators would continue to abuse children in other locations and venues. As the abuse became public and the number of civil lawsuits escalated, the Boy Scouts of America filed for a Chapter 11 financial restructuring in February 2020. This action was to offer equitable compensation to the victims and their families. By the end of 2020, the vast number of pending lawsuits resulted in a landmark bankruptcy filing to provide a financial framework for victim settlements.
The Michael Brady Lynch Firm Secures Justice for Survivors of Sexual Abuse
We believe there is nothing more important than the safety of our nation’s children. Our law firm is dedicated to helping victims of all ages that have suffered the trauma of sexual abuse. As a nationwide civil litigation law firm, we hold those accountable that have caused physical, emotional, or psychological harm to others. Survivors may require long-term counseling and other treatment therapies to cope with the devastation and mental anguish they endured due to sexual abuse. Furthermore, holding youth organizations accountable for their negligence can deter future abuse to others.
The Michael Brady Lynch Firm is an experienced and dedicated legal team. We will explain your rights, the options for recourse available to you, and help you navigate the legal system. We are widely regarded and tenaciously represent those that have been harmed by sexual abuse. We are known for our advocacy skills and are particularly sensitive to the concerns of our clients.
If you were a child victim of sexual abuse while participating in a youth organization and wish to pursue a legal claim, let us be your voice. Call our office in Winter Park, Florida, for a free and confidential consultation to speak with a knowledgeable and compassionate attorney. Contact us at 888-585-5970.
