YMCA Employee Sexual Abuse Lawsuit Attorney

Have You Been Sexually Abused, Harassed, or Molested by a YMCA Employee?

Sexual abuse is not only limited to religious organizations. Sometimes people are abused by YMCA counselors, teachers, coaches, or nurses. As a victim, you may have a claim against the institution where the abuse happened.

In June 2010, the Boston Globe reported that former YMCA employee James Conner will spend up to 30 years in prison for sexually assaulting young girls under his care. Conner, 52, of North Reading, pleaded guilty to 20 charges, including five counts of rape of a child with force and four counts of indecent assault on a child.

The Globe reports that prosecutors said Conner sexually assaulted two girls numerous times while employed as a girls’ basketball coach for the Melrose YMCA and used hidden video cameras to record himself in the act. Prosecutors said Conner committed the crimes at his home and at YMCA after-school programs. Both of the victims were under 14 at the time.

What is the YMCA?

The Young Men’s Christian Association, or “YMCA,” was founded in London in 1844 and organized the first basketball teams and group swim lessons in the United States. The YMCA went on to popularize exercise classes and create the oldest summer camp still in operation.

In fact, many aspects of America’s interest in physical fitness can be traced back to the YMCA, which now has more than 2,700 locations across the U.S. Originally geared toward young Christian men, the modern “Y” is open to women and men of all ages and creeds.

Related Article: What Is Quid Pro Quo Sexual Harassment?

Jury Awards $65 Million to Woman Abused by YMCA Counselor

In October 2022, a jury awarded a New York woman $65 million in a verdict against a former YMCA staff member who sexually abused her when she was a child in the 1990s, according to The Buffalo News [1.].

The Plaintiff, a 37-year-old woman who filed a Child Victims Act lawsuit under the pseudonym LG 46, claimed in State Supreme Court in Erie County that the former YMCA counselor, James B. Jackson, groomed and abused her for more than 7 years.

The woman admitted in a subsequent interview that she has struggled with alcohol abuse and trusting people in relationships. She said she sued Jackson in March 2020 to hold him accountable for his actions.

While no amount of money can ever compensate a victim for a horrific crime like sexual abuse, we believe the perpetrators and those at fault should pay for their actions. If your child has been the victim of molestation, the team at Schmidt & Clark, LLP is here to help. We can help you in filing a civil lawsuit against the perpetrator and the institution that failed to protect your child from being abused.

What should I expect during the legal process of a YMCA sexual abuse lawsuit?

The legal process includes an initial consultation with a lawyer, gathering and presenting evidence, filing the lawsuit, possible settlement negotiations, and potentially a court trial. Your lawyer will guide you through each step, advocating for your rights and seeking justice.

How does a class action lawsuit differ from an individual lawsuit in cases of sexual abuse?

In a class action lawsuit, a group of victims with similar claims against the same defendant are represented collectively. This can be more efficient and may lead to a larger settlement. In an individual lawsuit, the case is handled separately, which can provide more personalized attention to the specific details of the case.

FAQs

Can I file a lawsuit if the abuse happened many years ago?

In many states, the statute of limitations for sexual abuse cases has been extended, especially for minors. This means you may still be able to file a lawsuit even if the abuse happened years ago. Consult with a lawyer to understand your rights and options based on your specific situation.

What should I expect during the legal process of a YMCA sexual abuse lawsuit?

The legal process includes an initial consultation with a lawyer, gathering and presenting evidence, filing the lawsuit, possible settlement negotiations, and potentially a court trial. Your lawyer will guide you through each step, advocating for your rights and seeking justice.

How does a class action lawsuit differ from an individual lawsuit in cases of sexual abuse?

In a class action lawsuit, a group of victims with similar claims against the same defendant are represented collectively. This can be more efficient and may lead to a larger settlement. In an individual lawsuit, the case is handled separately, which can provide more personalized attention to the specific details of the case.

Can family members of victims receive compensation in a YMCA sexual abuse lawsuit?

Yes, family members of victims can also seek compensation for the emotional distress, therapy costs, and other impacts resulting from the abuse. This includes compensation for the support and care they provide to the victim during their recovery process.

Related Articles:

• Former Van Nuys Hs Teacher & Coach Sex Abuse
• George Harris Jr. Sexual Abuse Lawsuit
• Names of Catholic Priests Accused of Sex Abuse

See all related sexual abuse lawsuits our team has covered.

Do I have a Sexual Abuse Lawsuit?

The Sexual Abuse Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP law firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focuses on the representation of plaintiffs in sex abuse and molestation lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.

Free Sexual Abuse Case Evaluation: If you or a loved one has been sexually abused, molested, coerced, or otherwise mistreated by a YMCA staff member, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to compensation by filing a lawsuit and we can help.