Too often, some individuals use positions of power and authority to cause harm to our communities and individuals. No individual deserves deprivation of their constitutional rights to freedom from sexual assault, but a recent sentencing shows that this occurs all too often.
Recent sentencing of a former warden
The U.S. Department of Justice recently announced that a former warden for a California women’s prison was sentenced to over five years in prison for sexual abuse and sexual contact with inmates in the facility he managed. He was also convicted of making false statements to government officials.
The sentencing memorandum detailed how the warden utilized intimidation techniques against the women he abused. It also detailed how he encouraged an environment where several of his officers allegedly committed similar acts of sexual abuse on inmates.
Sexual abuse by professionals
If you have ever been wronged by a person in a position of authority, you may have wondered iif you have done something wrong. Maybe you have self-doubts or questions as to what you did to cause the assault.
You must know that you are not responsible for an abusive individual’s actions. Bluntly, it is not your fault, period. You should also know that you are not alone.
You can report any sexual abuse or assault to police authorities, like the Oakland Police Department. Though, in addition to criminal penalties, you may have options to recover civil damages against a sexual abuser. Oakland attorneys who advocate for sexual abuse survivors can help discuss your unique options. You did the hard part, you survived. Let professionals help you where they can.