Articles Posted in New Jersey

This page will examine civil lawsuits involving sexual abuse of juvenile inmates at Ocean County Juvenile Detention Center in New Jersey. During its decades in existence, countless juvenile detainees at the Ocean County JDC have been the victims of sexual abuse by staff members at the facility.

Thanks to new laws in New Jersey, these victims are now able to fight by with civil lawsuit against Ocean County. Victims who bring a successful abuse lawsuit can get significant financial compensation and settlement payouts. If have a potential case, contact our NJ sex abuse lawyers today at 800-553-8082 or get a free online consultation.

About Ocean County Juvenile Detention Center

The Ocean County Juvenile Detention Center (OCJDC) is short-term juvenile detention facility for youth inmates between the ages of 7 and 18. OCJDC is located on Sunset Ave in Toms River, NJ. OCJDC houses juveniles who have been charged with criminal offenses and are awaiting adjudication and sentencing. This means that the average length of stay for detainees at OCJDC is comparatively short.

OCJDC provides a full range of rehabilitative and support services to juvenile inmates. These include behavioral health services such as addiction treatment, as well as a mandatory educational program. Although the stated goal of OCJDC is rehabilitation rather than punishment, the facility is operated very much like a prison for juveniles.

Sexual Abuse of Juveniles at OCJDC

New Jersey’s state-level juvenile detention facilities (e.g., New Jersey Training School, NJ Medium Security Juvenile Facility, and NJ Female Secure Facility) are some of the worst in the country in terms of inequity, abuse, and neglect. OCJDC is not a state facility, but rather a county-level juvenile detention center. However, sexual abuse of juvenile inmates at OCJDC and other county juvenile detention centers in New Jersey has been a major problem for many decades.

Thanks to recent investigations and lawsuits, we now know that sexual abuse of juvenile inmates in New Jersey detention facilities was widespread.  Countless juvenile inmates have been sexually abused and exploited at OCJDC over the last several decades. In most cases, this abuse was perpetrated by the correctional officers and staff members at the facility who were supposed to be protecting the inmates. These abusers exploited their positions of authority and their access to the juvenile inmates to force and coerce them into sexual acts that they were not legally capable of consenting to.

Correctional officers and other staff at OCJDC have regular unsupervised and unmonitored access to juvenile inmates in very private and vulnerable settings, such as during strip searches and showers. This lack of supervision and easy access to victims gives abusers the ability to victimize juvenile detainees without fear of consequences. Staff who commit sexual abuse at OCJDC use a combination of threats and perks to coerce juvenile detainees into performing sexual favors. Inmates who comply are rewarded, while inmates who refuse are threatened with retribution.

One of the biggest shortfalls at OCJDC and other juvenile facilities has been the total failure to properly investigate complaints of sexual abuse and take appropriate action. Any complaints about abuse or inappropriate conduct by staff were regularly suppressed instead of being taken seriously and investigated.

Holding Ocean County Liable in a Civil Lawsuit

OCJDC is under the control and authority of the Ocean County Department of Juvenile Services. This means that Ocean County had a legal duty to take serious steps to keep kids at the OCJDC safe from sexual abuse and assault. That means not just watching out for inappropriate behavior from staff, but also making sure detainees are protected from each other. To do that, the county needed to put solid policies and procedures in place to prevent abuse from happening in the first place.

But there’s growing evidence that Ocean County (and many other counties in NJ) didn’t live up to that responsibility. Reports of abuse were often ignored or handled poorly by both the facility staff and state officials. There were big problems—like not enough staff supervision, weak or missing policies, poor training, and a lack of real safety measures.

Because of these serious failures, Ocean County can be held liable in civil lawsuits brought by victims of abuse. People who were sexually abused while held at OCJDC might have the right to sue and seek compensation for the harm they went through due to the county’s failure to protect them.

Potential Settlement Value of OCJDC Sex Abuse Lawsuit

How much someone might get from a lawsuit against Ocean County for sexual abuse at OCJDC really depends on a few important things:

How Strong the Evidence Is: Even if it’s just the survivor’s word, that can be enough to prove abuse. But if there are witnesses, documents, or a history of similar problems at the facility, that can really boost the case. It’s also crucial to show that the staff or the system dropped the ball—like if there were repeated failures in safety policies or no real effort to prevent abuse.

How Serious the Abuse Was: The more severe the abuse and its impact, the higher the potential payout. If the survivor was diagnosed with PTSD, depression, anxiety, or other emotional issues, that typically increases the settlement. But even without a formal diagnosis, many survivors still have powerful stories, and expert testimony can help explain the long-term emotional effects.

The Victim’s Age: Younger survivors often get larger settlements because the trauma can seriously affect their development, education, relationships, and future in deeper ways.

Naming Your Abuser Is NOT Required

Many people who were sexually abused or assaulted at juvenile facilities like OCJDC think they have to know the name of the staff member who abused them in order to take legal action. But that’s actually not the case. You don’t need to identify your abuser by name to file a civil lawsuit.

In fact, most survivors who file these types of lawsuits can’t name the person—they usually can only give a general description of what the person looked like or recall certain details about the situation. That’s totally okay. A basic description of the abuser or the circumstances is enough to get the legal process started.

Once the case is filed, your legal team can dig deeper during the discovery phase. They can request things like staff schedules, surveillance footage, and internal reports to help figure out exactly who was involved.

Now, if you do happen to know the name of the person, that can definitely make your case stronger—especially if that staff member has a history of abuse, past complaints, or has been criminally charged before. That kind of pattern can help prove the facility was negligent in keeping you safe.

Contact Us About OCJDC Sex Abuse Lawsuits

We are accepting Ocean County Juvenile Detention Center sex abuse lawsuits. Call us at 800-553-8082 or contact us online.

On this page, our New Jersey sex abuse lawyers will look at Middlesex County Juvenile Detention Center sexual abuse lawsuits. Former juvenile inmates at Middlesex County JDC who were victims of sexual abuse at the facility are now filing civil lawsuits against the County.

Recent changes in New Jersey law have given victims or sexual abuse at juvenile facilities like Middlesex the ability to hold parties accountable and get compensation. Victims who bring a successful abuse lawsuit can get significant settlement payouts. If you have a potential case, contact our NJ sex abuse lawyers today at 800-553-8082 or get a free online consultation.

About Middlesex County Juvenile Detention Center

The Middlesex County Juvenile Detention Center (MCJDC) is secure juvenile detention facility located in North Brunswick, NJ.  MCJDC holds male and female juvenile inmates who are awaiting final adjudication on criminal charges but have been remanded to custody pending that determination.

MCJDC is operated by the Middlesex County Office of Adult Corrections & Youth Services under the supervision of a Warden and overseen by the Middlesex County Board of County Commissioners. MCJDC has become a regional juvenile detention center in recent years. Juvenile inmates from Somerset County, Monmouth County, and Mercer County are all sent to MCJDC for secure custody.

Sexual Abuse of Juveniles at OCJDC

Like most juvenile detention centers in New Jersey, MCJDC does not have a good reputation for treatment of its juvenile detainees. The New Jersey state juvenile detention facilities (operated by the NJ Juvenile Justice Commission “NJ JJC”) are some of the worst in the country in terms of treatment of inmates. MCJDC is operated at the county-level, and not by NJ JJC. In 2010, the United States Department of Justice issued a report finding that New Jersey has some of the highest rates of sexual abuse among juvenile detention facilities nationwide and that much of this abuse goes unreported.

This does not mean that MCJDC is immune from the systemic problems that have plagued the state facilities.  In fact, MCJDC is considered one of the worst county-level juvenile detention facilities in the state – as explained in more detail below.

Countless juvenile inmates have been sexually abused and exploited at MCJDC over the last several decades. In most cases, this abuse was perpetrated by the correctional officers and staff members at the facility who were supposed to be protecting the inmates.

These abusers exploited their positions of authority and their access to the juvenile inmates to force and coerce them into sexual acts that they were not legally capable of consenting to. As a result of the County’s failures, children suffered sexual abuse at the hands of guards and other staff members at MCJDC who were responsible for their care.

History of Child Sexual Abuse at MDJDC

Middlesex County Juvenile Detention Center has a fairly long and well documented history of sexual abuse of juvenile inmates. In 2000, a civil lawsuit against Middlesex County alleged that it negligently failed to protect a 14-year-old juvenile inmate from sexual abuse perpetrated by a guard at MCJDC. In 2005, another guard at MCJDC faced criminal charges for sexual misconduct after he was accused of raping a high school student.

Most recently, in 2024 a lawsuit was filed on behalf of 6 former juvenile inmates at MCJDC. The lawsuit alleges that each of the juvenile inmates was sexually abused by correctional staff at MCJDC.

Negligent Oversight By Middlesex County

Correctional officers and other staff at MCJDC are frequently allowed unsupervised and unmonitored access to juvenile inmates in highly private and vulnerable situations, including during strip searches and while showering. This lack of oversight creates opportunities for abuse, enabling perpetrators to exploit detainees without fear of accountability. Staff members who engage in sexual abuse often manipulate juveniles through a mix of threats and incentives—coercing them into sexual acts by offering rewards for compliance and threatening retaliation for refusal.

One of the most serious and persistent failures at MCJDC, as well as in other juvenile detention centers, is the systemic neglect in responding to reports of sexual abuse. Instead of being taken seriously and thoroughly investigated, complaints about staff misconduct have frequently been ignored or deliberately suppressed.

Holding Middlesex County Liable in a Civil Lawsuit

Middlesex County has full control and authority over MCJDC. This means that Middlesex County had a legal duty to take serious steps to ensure that inmates at MCJDC are safe from sexual abuse and assault. That means not just watching out for inappropriate behavior from staff, but also making sure detainees are protected from each other. To do that, the county needed to put solid policies and procedures in place to prevent abuse from happening in the first place.

As outlined above, the County was chronically negligent with respect to this obligation. MCJDC failed to protect inmates in a number of ways, including not enough staff supervision, weak or missing policies, poor training, and a lack of real safety measures.

Because of this negligence, Middlesex County can be held liable in civil lawsuits brought by victims of abuse. People who were sexually abused while held at MCJDC might have the right to sue and seek compensation for the harm they went through due to the county’s failure to protect them.

Potential Settlement Value of OCJDC Sex Abuse Lawsuit

How much someone might get from a lawsuit against Middlesex County for sexual abuse at MCJDC really depends on a few important things:

Strength of the Evidence:
Even if the only evidence is the survivor’s testimony, that alone can be enough to establish a case of abuse. However, having additional support—such as witnesses, documentation, or evidence of a pattern of misconduct at the facility—can significantly strengthen the claim. It’s especially important to demonstrate that the facility or staff failed in their duty to protect detainees, whether through repeated safety lapses or a lack of preventive measures.

Severity of the Abuse:
The more serious the abuse and its impact on the survivor, the greater the potential for a higher settlement. Diagnoses of PTSD, depression, anxiety, or other emotional disorders often lead to increased compensation. Still, even without a formal diagnosis, survivors’ accounts carry weight. Expert witnesses can help explain the long-term psychological and emotional effects of the trauma.

Age of the Survivor:
Younger survivors may receive larger settlements because abuse at a young age can have profound and lasting impacts on development, education, relationships, and overall life trajectory.

You Don’t Need to Name Your Abuser to Take Legal Action

Many survivors of sexual abuse at juvenile facilities like MCJDC worry that they can’t come forward unless they can identify the abuser by name. That’s not true. It is entirely possible to file a civil lawsuit without knowing the abuser’s name. Most survivors can only recall general details, such as the abuser’s physical description or aspects of the situation—and that is sufficient to begin the legal process.

Once a case is filed, your legal team can use discovery tools to uncover critical information, such as staff schedules, surveillance footage, and internal records, to identify the person responsible.

That said, if you do know the name of the abuser, it can make the case stronger—especially if that individual has a known history of abuse, prior complaints, or criminal charges. Evidence of a pattern can be powerful in showing that the facility failed to protect you.

Contact Us About MCJDC Sex Abuse Lawsuits

We are accepting Middlesex County Juvenile Detention Center sex abuse lawsuits. Call us at 800-553-8082 or contact us online.

This page will look at Morris County Juvenile Detention Center sex abuse lawsuits. We will explain how former juvenile inmates at Morris County JDC who were sexually abused can now bring civil lawsuits and get financial compensation.

Our New Jersey sexual abuse attorneys are investigating juvenile detention center sex abuse cases across the state. If you were the victim of sexual abuse or assault at a New Jersey juvenile detention center, call us today at 800-553-8082 or contact us online.

About Morris County Juvenile Detention Center

The Morris County Juvenile Detention Center (MCJDC), located at 460 West Hanover Avenue in Morris Township, New Jersey, is a secure facility dedicated to providing short-term care and custody for juveniles aged 12 to 18.

MDJDC is a regional juvenile facility serving multiple counties in the area. MCJDC houses juvenile inmates from Morris, Sussex, Hunterdon, and Warren counties through shared services agreements. The center accommodates juveniles who are accused or adjudicated, pending court action, or awaiting transfer to another facility, and who cannot be served in an open setting.

Inmates at MCJDC are houses in barrack style housing units, and share common facilities for recreation and education. Residents participate in a full-year education program comprising five marking periods totaling over 230 days of instruction per year. Regardless of their educational status, all residents receive four hours of direct instruction every day.

Sussex County JDC (Closed)

Sussex County Juvenile Detention Center was a short-term juvenile facility in Sussex County similar to MDJDC. In 2009, Sussex County JDC closed permanently. Now MDJDC houses all juvenile inmates that would have previously gone to Sussex County JDC.

Sexual Abuse of Inmates MDJDC

New Jersey’s juvenile detention centers don’t have the best track record—they’re actually known for being some of the worst in the country when it comes to neglect and abuse. Most of the issues have come out of the state-run facilities, which are overseen by the New Jersey Juvenile Justice Commission. The Morris County JDC is a bit different since it’s run by the county, not the state—but that doesn’t mean inmates at MDJDC are not victimized.

In 2017, a female correctional officer at MCJDC was criminally prosecuted for physically abusing a female juvenile inmate at the facility. The officer admitted in court that she punched and kicked a juvenile inmate while that inmate was handcuffed to the floor. That inmate late brought a civil suit against Morris County and the officer.

Just like many other juvenile facilities, MCJDC has had its fair share of serious problems, including multiple reports over the years of sexual abuse involving staff and inmates. A big reason this kind of abuse happens so often is because there’s not enough oversight, and the system tends to just let things slide.

These aren’t one-off issues either—they point to bigger, structural problems. We’re talking about poor supervision, not enough training for staff, constant understaffing, and weak systems for holding people accountable. All of that creates the perfect environment for bad behavior to go unchecked.

One of the most disturbing parts? MCJDC has a history of brushing off credible complaints from kids about staff misconduct. A lot of the time, those reports were ignored, mishandled, or just not followed up on at all. In some cases, it’s even been alleged that administrators tried to protect the staff being accused or cover up the evidence altogether.

Holding Morris County Accountable for Abuse

MCJDC is under the operational control and authority of the Morris County Department of Human Services. This means that Morris County has both a legal and constitutional duty to take reasonable steps to protect the youth held at MCJDC from sexual abuse and assault. This responsibility doesn’t just cover preventing abuse by staff—it also includes keeping detainees safe from harm by other juveniles. To meet this obligation, the county was supposed to create and enforce strong policies and procedures to prevent sexual abuse inside the facility.

But despite that clear duty, there’s growing evidence that Morris County failed to do its part. When reports of abuse came in, the response from both facility staff and state officials was often lacking. Problems ranged from poor staff oversight to weak or nonexistent policies, not enough training, and a serious failure to put effective safety measures in place.

Because of these oversights and failures, Morris County could be held legally responsible in civil court. Survivors of sexual abuse at MCJDC may have the right to seek compensation for the trauma and harm they endured due to the county’s failure to protect them.

You Don’t Need to Know Your Abuser’s Name

Many survivors of sexual abuse at juvenile facilities like MCJDC think they have to know the name of the staff member who harmed them in order to file a lawsuit. But that’s actually not the case. You do not need to identify your abuser by name when you first file a civil claim.

In reality, most people who come forward with these types of cases don’t know exactly who their abuser was. What matters is that they can describe what happened and, if possible, give a general physical description or any details about the circumstances. That’s usually enough to get the legal process started.

Once a lawsuit is filed, lawyers can use the discovery process to dig deeper. This includes getting access to staff rosters, video footage, incident reports, and other records that can help identify the person responsible.

Of course, if a survivor can name their abuser, that can make the case stronger—especially if that staff member has a history of complaints or has been disciplined or charged in the past. That kind of information can help prove there was a pattern of abuse and that the facility failed to act.

Settlement Payouts for MCJDC Sex Abuse Cases

If you’re thinking about filing a lawsuit for sexual abuse that happened at CCJDC, you’re probably wondering how much a case like this might be worth. The answer depends on a few key factors. Here’s a breakdown of what can influence the potential value of a settlement:

1. The Severity of the Abuse
   The more serious and long-lasting the harm, the higher the potential compensation. If the survivor has been diagnosed with PTSD, depression, anxiety, or has physical injuries, that can significantly increase the value of the case. Even without medical records, mental health experts can still help build a strong case by speaking to the emotional and psychological effects of the abuse.
2. The Evidence That’s Available
   A survivor’s own account can carry a lot of weight. But supporting evidence—like internal reports, witness statements, or proof that staff ignored red flags—can strengthen the case and lead to a higher settlement. If it can be shown that the facility had serious safety failures or ignored signs of abuse, that’s a big factor in holding them accountable.
3. The Victim’s Age at the Time
   Younger victims often receive larger settlements because of how deeply the trauma can affect their development and long-term mental health. Courts and juries tend to recognize the lasting impact abuse can have on a child or teenager.
4. Whether the Abuser Can Be Identified
   You don’t have to know exactly who abused you to file a claim, but being able to identify the person—especially if they’ve faced similar accusations before—can really strengthen the case. It shows a pattern of abuse and can make it harder for the facility to deny responsibility.

Contact Us About MCJDC Sex Abuse Cases

If you were sexually abused as an inmate at Morris County Juvenile Detention Center, you may be able to file a lawsuit and get compensation. Reach out to us online or call 800-553-8082.

On this page, we will explain how former inmates who were sexually abused at Essex County Juvenile Detention Center in Newark, NJ can file civil lawsuits and get financial compensation.

Our national sex abuse lawyers are currently accepting New Jersey juvenile detention center sex abuse lawsuits involving facilities across the state. If you were the victim of sexual abuse or assault at a New Jersey juvenile detention center, call us today at 800-553-8082 or contact us online.

About Essex County Juvenile Detention Center

The Essex County Juvenile Detention Center (ECJDC) is a secure facility located in Newark, New Jersey, designed to house juveniles who are awaiting court hearings or placement. Located at 80 Duryea Street, the center operates under the Essex County Juvenile Justice System and aims to provide a safe, structured environment focused on rehabilitation. ECJDC provides short-term detention for juveniles who have been charged with criminal offenses and are awaiting adjudication and sentencing.

ECJDC can hold up to 200 juvenile inmates, which makes it one of the biggest and busiest juvenile detention facilities in New Jersey. ECJDC is a maximum security level facility and it averages about 150 juvenile inmates at any given day, with an average age of 16.

Juvenile inmates at ECJDC are required to participate in the facility’s educational program, which involves a normal school schedule Monday thru Friday. In addition to academic instruction, the center offers substance abuse and mental health programs to address underlying issues contributing to delinquent behavior. These programs aim to equip juveniles with the tools necessary for successful reintegration into society.

Sexual Abuse of Inmates at Essex County JDC

New Jersey’s juvenile detention facilities have long been plagued by serious concerns about inmate neglect and abuse. State-run juvenile centers, overseen by the New Jersey Juvenile Justice Commission, are often regarded as among the most problematic in the nation. ECJDC is operated at the county level, so it is under different operational control than the state facilities. However, ECJDC inmates have suffered from the same widespread abuse issues that have affected the state operated facilities in NJ.

Like many similar facilities, ECJDC has been the subject of numerous allegations involving sexual abuse of inmates, particularly by staff. These incidents are often attributed to systemic neglect and a critical lack of institutional oversight.

The challenges at ECJDC are not isolated events, but rather symptoms of deeper structural deficiencies—such as inadequate supervision, insufficient staff training, chronic understaffing, and ineffective accountability measures. These persistent shortcomings have allowed abuse to persist without meaningful intervention.

Among the most troubling aspects of ECJDC’s record is its repeated failure to properly address credible reports of staff misconduct. Complaints from youth inmates have often been ignored, mishandled, or not investigated at all. In some cases, administrators are alleged to have protected staff accused of abuse or attempted to conceal evidence of misconduct.

Holding Essex County Liable for Abuse

ECJDC is under the operational control and authority of Essex County. That means that Essex County is supposed to take reasonable steps to protect kids held at ECJDC from sexual abuse and assault. This isn’t just a moral obligation to do the right thing, this is actually a legal obligation imposed by tort law and constitutional law.

The legal duty to protect juvenile inmates from abuse at ECJDC means keeping them safe not only from staff misconduct but also from potential harm caused by other detainees. To do that, the county should have had solid policies and procedures in place to prevent abuse from happening in the first place.

It is now becoming very obvious, however, that Essex County seriously dropped the ball. There’s growing evidence that the county didn’t live up to its responsibilities. Reports of abuse were often ignored or handled poorly, both by the people running the facility and by state officials. Major problems included lack of proper staff supervision, weak or missing policies, inadequate training, and safety procedures that were either ineffective or not there at all.

Because of this negligence, the county is now facing legal consequences. People who were sexually abused while detained at ECJDC have the right to sue and seek compensation for the trauma and harm they experienced due to the county’s failure to keep them safe.

ECJDC Abuse Victims Are Fighting Back

A growing number of former inmates at ECJDC have already filed civil lawsuit alleging that they were sexually abused at facility because Essex County negligently failed to protect them. In June 2024, a group of 6 former ECJDC inmates filed a sexual abuse civil lawsuit against Essex County.

The plaintiffs in that lawsuit all allege that they were sexually abused by staff members at ECJDC. The acts of sexual abuse alleged in the lawsuit range from inappropriate touching, unnecessary and invasive strip searches, and forced sexual assaults. The lawsuit asserts that Essex County and ECJDC administrators received complaints about the alleged abuse, but ignored the complaints.

The plaintiffs say they were coerced into performing sexual acts on various staff members (including correctional officers and a former gym teacher). with promises of extra meals, privileges, and contraband. The sexual favors were also coerced with threats that their meals would be withheld, or their visitation and phone privileges revoked.

You Don’t Need to Know the Name of Your Abuser

Many survivors of sexual abuse in juvenile facilities think they have to know the name of the staff member who harmed them in order to file a lawsuit—but that’s actually not the case. You are not legally required to identify your abuser by name when starting a civil lawsuit.

In fact, most people who bring these types of cases aren’t able to name their abuser. Often, all they can provide is a general physical description or details about when and how the abuse happened. That’s enough to move forward with legal action.

Once a lawsuit is filed, the legal process called discovery gives attorneys access to important information—like staff schedules, surveillance footage, and internal records—that can help identify who was responsible.

While it’s not necessary to name the abuser to start a claim, doing so can make the case stronger. This is especially true if the person has a history of similar behavior, prior complaints, or a criminal record. That kind of information can help show that the facility failed to act—and may even have ignored warning signs.

Settlement Value of ECJDC Sex Abuse Lawsuits

If you’re considering filing a lawsuit for sexual abuse that happened at ECJDC, you’re probably wondering what a case like this might be worth. The answer depends on a few key factors. Here’s what can impact the potential value of a settlement:

1. Severity of the Abuse

Generally, the more serious the abuse, the higher the potential compensation. If the survivor has been diagnosed with conditions like PTSD, anxiety, depression, or suffered physical injuries, that can significantly increase the value of the case. But even without medical records, mental health experts can still help show the emotional damage caused by the abuse.

2. Available Evidence

While a survivor’s own account is often powerful on its own, additional evidence—like internal reports, witness statements, or proof that staff ignored warning signs—can make the case even stronger. If it’s clear that the facility failed to protect detainees, that can lead to a higher settlement.

3. Age of the Victim

Younger victims tend to receive higher settlements because the long-term emotional and psychological impact of the abuse is often more severe. The law recognizes how deeply this kind of trauma can affect a child’s development and future.

4. Whether the Abuser Can Be Identified

You don’t have to know exactly who your abuser was to file a lawsuit. But if the abuser can be identified—especially if they’ve been accused before or have a known history of misconduct—that can add a lot of weight to the case. It helps prove the facility knew (or should have known) there was a danger and failed to act.

Contact Us About ECJDC Sex Abuse Lawsuits

We are accepting Essex County Juvenile Detention Center sex abuse lawsuits. Call us at 800-553-8082 or contact us online.

This page will look at civil sex abuse lawsuits involving juvenile inmates at the New Jersey Female Secure Care and Intake Facility. The Juvenile Female Secure Center, like many other juvenile detention facilities in New Jersey, has a dark history of staff on inmate sexual abuse. Victims of this abuse can now filed civil lawsuits and get financial compensation for their pain and suffering.

If you have a potential sex abuse lawsuit involving the Female Secure Care and Intake Facility, call our New Jersey sex abuse lawyers, today at 800-553-8082 or get a free online consultation.

Female Secure Care Facility

The Juvenile Female Secure Care and Intake Facility, located in Bordentown, serves as the intake and secure care unit for all juvenile females sentenced to incarceration in New Jersey. It is the only secure facility in the state that provides education, treatment, and custody for committed juvenile females. The facility is designed to accommodate 48 individuals, with eight single rooms designated as detention cells.

The primary goal of the Female Secure Care facility is to prepare juvenile females for a transition to a less restrictive environment through an incentive-based system. The Secure Care Unit offers a gender-specific, comprehensive, and culturally diverse program tailored to meet the unique needs of the juvenile female population. Programming includes academic instruction, physical fitness, health education, and vocational training, with specialized cosmetology and graphic arts courses.

Sexual Abuse of Inmates at the Female Secure Care Facility

Sexual abuse of inmates at New Jersey’s juvenile detention centers has been a major problem for many years. Investigations by the US Department of Justice have found that New Jersey has some of the worst juvenile justice centers in the entire country. In fact, the New Jersey Medium Security Juvenile Facility, which is located on the same campus as the Female Secure Care facility, is widely considered one of the worst juvenile detentions centers in the country.

Incidents of staff sexual abuse and exploitation of inmates at the Female Secure Care center are a regular occurrence. Thanks to recent investigations and lawsuits, we now have a better understanding of the full extent of the problem. Correctional officers and other staff members at the Female Secure Care facility used a combination of threats, bribes, and other methods to coerce female juvenile inmates to engage in sexual acts.

The New Jersey Female Secure Care and Intake Facility, located in Bordentown, has been the subject of serious allegations regarding sexual abuse by staff members. In October 2024, two senior corrections officers, Gary Nieves and William Young, were charged with sexually assaulting an 18-year-old female resident at the facility. The victim reported that these assaults occurred multiple times within the facility, including in shared areas and her living quarters.

This incident is part of a broader pattern of abuse within New Jersey’s juvenile detention centers. In June 2024, a lawsuit was filed on behalf of eight survivors who alleged sexual abuse by staff members at various facilities, including the Juvenile Female Secure Care and Intake Facility. These survivors, both men and women, reported abuses dating back to the 1980s, highlighting systemic issues within the state’s juvenile justice system.

How Is Sex Abuse Defined in New Jersey?

New Jersey law defines sexual abuse and sexual assault as intentional sexual contact (either directly or through clothing) of the intimate parts for degrading or humiliating the victim or sexually gratifying the abuser. This definition covers everything from forcible rape to indecent exposure.

The critical element that defines all types and categories of sexual abuse or assault is the lack of consent. Without consent, any form of sexual contact is actionable as sexual abuse or assault. Children (under the age of 18) lack the legal capacity to give consent to sexual contact. This means that ANY and ALL intentional sexual contact by an adult with a minor is necessarily considered sexual abuse. Since all inmates at the Female Secure Care facility are minors, any sexual contact with them by an adult staff member amounts to sexual abuse.

Lawsuits For Sex Abuse at the Female Secure Care Facility

The Female Secure Care Facility operates under the control and authority of the New Jersey Juvenile Justice Commission (JJC). The JJC and its administrators oversee every aspect of the Female Secure Care center, including hiring correctional officers and staff, providing proper training, and ensuring adequate supervision and monitoring of personnel.

JJC has a legal obligation to take reasonable steps to protect juvenile inmates in its custody from sexual abuse and assault. This duty extends beyond preventing abuse by staff to also safeguarding inmates from harm inflicted by other detainees. To fulfill this responsibility, JJC was required to establish, enforce, and follow policies and procedures designed to prevent sexual victimization.

However, mounting evidence indicates that JJC systematically failed in this duty. Despite previous reports of abuse, state authorities and facility staff did not take adequate action to prevent further harm. This negligence included poor staff supervision, weak policies, inadequate employee training, and a failure to implement effective safety measures.

As a result, JJC can be held legally accountable in civil lawsuits. Anyone who experienced sexual abuse while incarcerated in the Female Secure Care center has the right to pursue legal action against JJC for its negligence in allowing the abuse to occur.

Identification of the Abuser is Not Required

Many survivors of sexual abuse in juvenile detention centers and juvenile halls think they need to know their abuser’s full name to file a lawsuit. That is simply not true. A lot of victims—especially those who were minors at the time—never knew the names of the people who hurt them. Some only remember what the person looked like or what their job was. Others might just recall bits and pieces. But that does not mean they cannot take legal action.

If you were abused in a juvenile hall or juvenile detention center, you do not need to name the person who did it. It helps if you can, but it is not required. Many of these places had rotating staff, and kids were not always told names. What really matters is what happened to you and the facility’s role in allowing it to happen.

Lawsuits against places like the New Jersey Juvenile Justice Commission are about more than just one person’s actions. They focus on the bigger picture—systemic failures, lack of oversight, and an environment that let abuse happen. These claims argue that the facility itself was responsible, whether through poor supervision, bad policies, or ignoring complaints.

At the end of the day, lawsuits against juvenile detention centers are about holding the system accountable. You do not need all the details or a perfect memory to seek justice. What happened to you matters, and you have the right to take action—even if you cannot name the person who harmed you.

Deadline for Filing Child Sex Abuse Lawsuits in New Jersey

New Jersey has changed its laws to give survivors of child sexual abuse more time to file a lawsuit. If you were abused at NJTS or another institution in New Jersey, you now have until your 55th birthday to take legal action. This is because of updates to the state’s statute of limitations, which were designed to help survivors who need more time to come forward.

Even if you are over 55, you may still have the right to sue. The law allows lawsuits if you can show that you only recently realized the abuse happened because of psychological repression. Many survivors do not fully process their trauma until years later, and New Jersey law recognizes that. This means that even if you thought your time had run out, you might still have a claim, depending on the facts.

These changes give survivors a stronger path to justice, allowing them to hold those responsible accountable. Whether it is an institution, an organization, or an individual, survivors now have more legal options to seek the justice they deserve.

If you believe you have a case, do not wait. Talking to a lawyer who understands these laws can help you figure out your rights and whether you still have time to file a claim.

What This Means for Survivors at New Jersey Juvenile Detention Centers

• If you were under 18 when the abuse happened, you can now file a lawsuit until your 55th birthday or within seven years of realizing the abuse’s impact—whichever gives you more time.
• If you were 18 or older, you now have seven years from the assault or seven years from discovery to take legal action.
• If your claim was previously expired, the lookback window may have allowed you to file a lawsuit until November 30, 2021—but even if you missed that, you should still consult with an attorney, as exceptions can sometimes apply.

Settlement Value of NJ Juvenile Detention Sex Abuse Lawsuits

Victims of sexual abuse at juvenile detention facilities may be entitled to significant financial compensation through a civil lawsuit. The potential settlement value of a successful claim for sexual abuse at the New Jersey Female Secure Care facility depends on several key factors:

• Nature of the Abuse: The severity of the abuse plays a major role in determining settlement amounts. Cases involving inappropriate touching or groping typically result in lower compensation than those involving forcible rape or repeated assault.
• Duration of the Abuse: The frequency and duration of the abuse can impact settlement payouts. A single incident, while still serious, is generally less traumatic than ongoing abuse that occurs over several months or years.
• Supporting Evidence: In most cases, a victim’s testimony is sufficient to establish that abuse occurred. However, additional evidence—such as witness statements, records of prior complaints, or surveillance footage—can strengthen the case and increase the potential settlement amount.
• Negligence of the Facility: If there is evidence that the juvenile facility ignored prior reports of misconduct, failed to investigate complaints, or was otherwise grossly negligent in protecting inmates, the settlement value may be significantly higher.
• Hiring the Best Lawyer: Sexual abuse cases, especially those involving government-run facilities like the Female Secure Care and Intake Facility, are complex and require highly skilled legal representation. The quality of your lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Not all attorneys have the experience, resources, or dedication necessary to take on powerful institutions and navigate the legal obstacles that often arise in these cases.  Survivors should not settle for just any sex abuse lawyer.
• Jurisdiction: Burlington County is not the most plaintiff-friendly jurisdiction in New Jersey, but it is far from the worst. While local courts have historically been cautious about awarding large verdicts against government entities, recent shifts in public awareness and legal reforms have made it more hospitable to survivors of institutional abuse. With the right legal strategy and a strong case, plaintiffs can still achieve meaningful compensation and accountability in Burlington County.

Each case is unique, but victims who pursue legal action can seek justice and financial compensation for the harm they have suffered.

Contact a Lawyer for Help

If you or someone you know experienced sexual abuse while detained at the Female Secure Care Facility in New Jersey, it is essential to consult with an attorney who specializes in sexual abuse litigation. Legal professionals dedicated to advocating for survivors can guide you through the legal process and work to hold those responsible accountable.

Survivors deserve justice. No institution should be allowed to protect abusers from facing the consequences of their actions. By taking legal action, survivors can reclaim their voices, seek accountability, and push for meaningful change.

If you are a survivor of sexual abuse at the NJ Female Secure Care facility or any other juvenile detention center in New Jersey, know that you are not alone. Contact our experienced sex abuse attorneys today to learn more about your legal rights and take the first step toward justice. Call us at 800-553-8082 or reach out to us online.

On this page, we will look at sex abuse lawsuits involving youth inmates at the New Jersey Juvenile Medium Security Facility (JMSF) in Bordentown, NJ. These lawsuits are brought by former juvenile inmates at JNSF who were sexually abused by correctional officers or staff at the facility. The lawsuits seek to hold the state liable for negligently failing to protect juvenile inmates from sexual abuse and assault.

Our national sex abuse lawyers are currently accepting New Jersey juvenile detention center sex abuse lawsuits involving JMSF and other facilities. If you were the victim of sexual abuse or assault at a JMSF, call us today at 800-553-8082 or contact us online.

About Juvenile Medium Security Facility

New Jersey’s Juvenile Medium Security Facility (JMSF) is located in Bordentown , New Jersey and can hold around 260 inmates between the aged of 12-21 (although most inmates are 15-17 years old). The term “medium security” is very misleading because NJSF is actually the highest security level juvenile detention center in the state of New Jersey. NJSF receives juvenile offenders who have been convicted of the most serious or violate crimes.

The JMSF North Compound can accommodate 118 juvenile inmates in two large housing units. The juveniles in the North Compound are houses in security conditions very similar to adult prison. The South Compound at JMSF has six housing “pods” which each holds up to 24 juvenile inmates.

Both compounds at NJSF are serviced by a host of staff members including, custody officers, social workers, mental health clinicians, nurses, youth workers, substance abuse counselors and certified teachers. In addition to mandatory education, juvenile inmates at NJSF receive on-site mental health counseling, education, social services, and primary medical care.

Racial and Demographic Inequities at JMSF

JMSF has been widely criticized for racial and socio-economic disparities. Statewide, New Jersey has the highest Black to white youth incarceration disparity rate in the country, with a Black youth 21 times more likely to be locked up than a white youth. This disparity is even more pronounced at JMSF where the juvenile inmates are almost all black.

JMSF has also be criticized for its outdated focus on punishment over education and rehabilitation. JMSF is essentially a prison for younger offenders. Inmates are held in cells and their movements are highly restricted, just like in an adult prison.

Sexual Abuse at JMSF

New Jersey’s juvenile detention centers have a long history of sexual abuse of inmates. JMSF and other juvenile detention centers in the state are operated by the New Jersey Juvenile Justice Commission (NJJC). NJJC has systemically neglected its legal obligation to protect juvenile inmates at it facilities. These issues have been extensively documented over the years as juvenile detention facilities in New Jersey and other states have faced increased scrutiny, investigations, and civil lawsuits.

NJJC has operated JMSF in a negligent manner, allowing sexual abuse of detainees to occur regularly with little to no oversight or intervention. Staff-on-inmate sexual abuse facilities like JMSF is not an isolated issue. A lack of oversight, inadequate monitoring, insufficient training, and chronic understaffing created an environment where sexual predators could victimize juvenile inmates without fear of consequences.

One of NJJC’s most egregious failures was its consistent disregard for credible complaints from inmates about abusive or inappropriate conduct by staff. When juvenile inmates reported abuse by correctional officers, their complaints were often dismissed, ignored, or never properly investigated. In some cases, the administration actively protected the alleged abusers or attempted to cover up the misconduct.

Civil Lawsuits for Sexual Abuse of Juvenile Inmates in New Jersey

The New Jersey Juvenile Justice Commission (NJJC) has a legal duty to take reasonable measures to protect juvenile inmates at JMSF from sexual abuse and assault. This responsibility extends beyond preventing abuse by staff to also ensuring inmates are safeguarded from harm by other detainees. To fulfill this obligation, NJJC was required to establish, implement, and enforce policies and procedures designed to prevent sexual abuse.

However, growing evidence indicates that NJJC systematically failed in this duty at JMSF. Despite prior reports of abuse, state authorities and facility staff did not take sufficient action to prevent further harm. This negligence included inadequate staff supervision, weak policies, insufficient employee training, and a failure to implement effective safety measures.

As a result, NJJC can be held legally accountable in civil lawsuits. Anyone who suffered sexual abuse while incarcerated in a New Jersey juvenile detention center has the right to pursue legal action against NJJC for negligently allowing the abuse to occur.

Identification of the Abuser

Many victims of sexual abuse or assault at juvenile facilities like JMSF assume that they need to be able to name the staff member who abused them in order to file a lawsuit. That is definitely NOT true. Abuse victims at JMSF are not required to know the full name and identify of the person or persons who sexually abused them. A civil lawsuit can be filed based on a generalized description of the abuser. After filing the lawsuit, the victim and their attorneys can gather additional information through discovery, which may help identify the perpetrator.

While identifying the abuser is not required to bring a successful case, naming them can significantly strengthen the claim. This is especially true if the individual has a documented history of misconduct at the facility, such as prior complaints of abuse or inappropriate behavior. A case becomes even stronger if the named abuser was later charged with criminal sexual offenses.

Settlement Value of JMSF Sex Abuse Lawsuits

The compensation awarded in a successful juvenile detention center sexual abuse lawsuit depends on several key factors. Below are the primary considerations that can affect the potential settlement amount:

Severity of Abuse: The extent of the abuse suffered by the victim plays a significant role in determining compensation. Cases involving diagnosed physical injuries, PTSD, depression, anxiety, or other mental health conditions often result in higher settlements. However, even without documented injuries, strong claims can be supported by expert testimony from psychologists or psychiatrists evaluating the abuse’s impact.

Supporting Evidence: The victim’s testimony can be enough to establish that abuse occurred, additional supporting evidence can significantly increase the settlement value. Proving that the detention center or its staff were negligent in preventing the abuse is crucial. Demonstrating systemic failures in the institution’s policies and procedures can also strengthen the case and lead to higher compensation.

Age of the Victim: Younger victims often receive higher settlements due to the lasting impact of trauma on their development and future well-being. The younger the victim at the time of the abuse, the greater the potential for long-term psychological and emotional consequences.

Identification of Abuser: As discussed above, identifying the person who committed the sexual abuse is not necessary. However, if the victim is able to identify their abuser it will strengthen their case, especially if that individual had a history of misconduct.

Contact Us About JMSF Sex Abuse Lawsuits

We are accepting New Jersey Juvenile Medium Security Facility sex abuse lawsuits. Call us at 800-553-8082 or contact us online.

The page examines sexual abuse and assault lawsuits involve juvenile inmates at the New Jersey Training School (a/k/a Jamesburg) juvenile detention facility. The New Jersey Training school has a long and notorious history of victimization and abuse of its juvenile inmates. Now many of these inmates are courageously coming forward to file civil lawsuits and get financial compensation.

If you have a potential sex abuse lawsuit involving the New Jersey Training School, call our New Jersey sex abuse lawyers, today at 800-553-8082 or get a free online consultation.

News & Updates:

July 2024 – Committee Formed to Explore Shutdown of NJTS

The New Jersey Attorney General announced that he has formed a special committee to look into the logistics of shutting down NJTS (and other juvenile detention facilities). The committee will evaluate options and provide recommendations for implementing such a plan.

January 2024 – Governor Vows to Shut Down NJTS

In response to a civil lawsuit brought on behalf of 50 former NJTS inmates alleging that they were sexually abused at the facility, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy announced that he was strongly in favor of shutting down the facility entirely. The State Attorney General followed suit with his own vow to launch an “extensive investigation” into allegations of systemic abuse at NJTS.

June 2022 – Investigative Report on Failed Juvenile System in NJ

A significant investigative report found that New Jersey’s juvenile correction and detention system was a disaster. It explained how NJTS and other facilities were places where juvenile inmates were habitually abused, sexually and physically, and neglected. It also criticized the common practice of putting juvenile inmates in solitary confinement (something that happened primarily at NJTS).

August 2017 – Former NJTS Files Sex Abuse Lawsuit

A former inmate at NJTS filed a civil lawsuit against the state alleging that it negligently failed to protect him from sexual abuse by a correctional officer at the facility. The lawsuit alleged that the female correctional officer bribed and coerced him into a sexual relationship.

About New Jersey Training School

The New Jersey Training School (NJTS) is the biggest state operated juvenile detention center in New Jersey. NJTS can accommodate up to 200 juvenile inmates ranging in age from as young as 12 to as old as 23. NJTS is located in Monroe Township.

NJTS was first opened way back in 1867 as a home for “troubled youth.” Today, NJTS is a highly advanced, modern facility in which juvenile inmates are kept under high level security. Inmates at NJTS are those who have been sentenced to a period of correctional by the courts, so they tend to have long stays compared to local juvenile facilities.

NJTS provides a full range of care, treatment and educational services to its juvenile inmates. It has various “rehabilitation” programs for juvenile detainees. The facility has 7 separate housing units, a school, vocational training center, medical building, and recreation facilities.

Sexual Abuse of Juveniles at NJTS

The New Jersey Training School, also known as Jamesburg, has been plagued by years of scandal involving staff-on-inmate sexual abuse. A scathing U.S. Department of Justice report identified NJTS as one of the worst juvenile detention centers in the country for the sexual victimization of youth inmates.

For decades, reports of staff mistreatment and neglect at NJTS have been consistent. Advocates for juvenile justice reform have pointed to the facility as an example of the systemic failures that exist. Recent lawsuits involving abuse of NJTS inmates are now being filed. These lawsuits show that inmates housed at NJTS were for decades subjected to sexual abuse at the hands of facility staff, who regularly used physical force, threats, and manipulation to take advantage of youth under their care.

Investigations and lawsuits have revealed that sexual abuse of juveniles at NJTS may have been committed by correctional officers, counselors, teachers, and other staff members at the facility.  Staff and officers at NJTS have been accused of conducted improper strip searches, violent rapes, and the use of bribes and threats to coerce inmates into sex.

What Qualifies As Sexual Abuse?

Sexual assault or sexual abuse is defined as sexual touching or contact without the other person’s consent and for the purpose of sexual gratification. In the context of a civil lawsuit, sexual abuse or assault is often referred to as sexual battery. Lack of consent is one of the 2 key elements of this. Under New Jersey law, minors (anyone under the age of 18) do not have the capacity to give consent to sexual touching with an adult. This means that any sexual contact with a juvenile offender by an adult staff member at NJTS would be considered sexual abuse, regardless of whether the perpetrator thought it was consensual.

Lawsuits for Sexual Abuse of Juvenile Inmates NJTS

NJTS is under the operational control and authority of the New Jersey Juvenile Justice Commission (JJC). The JJC and its administrators have full control over every aspect of the running NJTS. This includes deciding who to hire as correctional officers and staff members at the facility. It also includes training and properly monitoring and supervising staff members at NJTS.

JJC has a legal duty to take reasonable measures to protect juvenile inmates in its custody from sexual abuse and assault. This responsibility extends not only to preventing abuse by staff but also by other inmates. To meet this obligation, JJC was required to implement and enforce policies and procedures designed to safeguard inmates from sexual victimization.

However, growing evidence suggests that JJC systematically failed in this duty. Despite previous reports of abuse, state authorities and facility staff did not take sufficient action to prevent further harm. This negligence included inadequate staff supervision, weak policies, poor employee training, and a failure to implement effective safety measures.

As a result, JJC can be held legally accountable in civil lawsuits. Anyone who suffered sexual abuse while incarcerated in a New Jersey juvenile detention center has the right to file a lawsuit against JJC for negligently allowing the abuse to occur.

Identification of the Abuser

Many victims incorrectly assume that they need to be able to name and/or identify the person who abused or assaulted them in order to bring a sex abuse lawsuit against NJTS. This is actually not true. Many victims of abuse at NJTS are not able to give the name of the staff member that abused them at the facility. In many cases, all the victims have is a general description of the individual and their job or role.

Being able to name a specific individual as the perpetrator of the abuse will certainly make a case much stronger, but it is definitely not necessary. Sex abuse lawsuits against NJTS are based on more general allegations of systemic neglect, which is enough to hold JJC accountable.

Deadline to File Lawsuit for Sex Abuse at NJTS

Thanks to new changes to the statute of limitations laws for civil lawsuits involving sexual abuse of minors, victims at NJTS have a much longer legal deadline to file a lawsuit. Under New Jersey’s new law, victims of child sexual abuse have until their 55^th birthday to file a civil lawsuit. Even victims who have already turned 55 may be able to extend their deadline by showing that they did not “become aware” of the abuse until recently due to psychological repression.

Settlement Value of NJTS Sex Abuse Lawsuits

The amount of compensation you can receive from suing JJC and the state for sexual abuse at NJTS depends on several key factors, including:

• Evidence: While a victim’s testimony is often sufficient to prove that abuse occurred, additional evidence can significantly increase the settlement value. Evidence showing that the detention center or its staff were negligent, such as repeated policy failures or inadequate procedures, strengthens the case. Institutions with a history of systemic negligence often face higher liabilities.
• Severity: The level of harm inflicted, including diagnoses of PTSD, depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues, plays a significant role in determining the case’s value. Even without objective physical injuries, claims can remain strong, especially with expert testimony from psychologists or psychiatrists regarding the abuse’s impact on the victim.
• Age of the Victim: Younger victims often receive higher settlements due to the abuse’s long-term effects on their development and life.
• Your Lawyer: The lawyer representing the victim can have a major impact on the settlement outcome. Experienced sexual abuse attorneys are skilled at maximizing compensation and negotiating strong settlements.

Contact Us About NJTS Sex Abuse Cases

If you were sexually abused as an inmate at NJTS, you may be able to file a lawsuit and get compensation. Reach out to us online or call 800-553-8082.

On this page, we will look at New Jersey juvenile detention center sex abuse lawsuits. These lawsuits are brought by victims who were sexually abused while they were inmates at a New Jersey juvenile detention center. The lawsuits seek to hold the state liable for negligently failing to protect them from sexual abuse and assault.

Our national sex abuse lawyers are currently accepting New Jersey juvenile detention center sex abuse lawsuits. If you were the victim of sexual abuse or assault at a New Jersey juvenile detention center, call us today at 800-553-8082 or contact us online.

Juvenile Detention Center Facilities in New Jersey

Juvenile detention centers in New Jersey are under the operational control and authority of the New Jersey Juvenile Justice Commission (NJJC). The NJJC oversees both long-term juvenile correctional facilities for youth sentenced to incarceration and county-operated short-term juvenile detention centers that hold juveniles awaiting adjudication.

New Jersey’s long-term juvenile correctional facilities provide year-round education geared toward a high school diploma, GED, or college credits, along with vocational training, healthcare services, and substance abuse treatment programs. These facilities are designed for juveniles who have been adjudicated and sentenced to extended stays in the juvenile justice system.

State-Run Detention Centers

Currently, New Jersey operates three long-term state-run juvenile correctional facilities:

1. Juvenile Medium Security Facility (JMSF) – Located in Bordentown, NJ, this facility houses male juvenile offenders in a medium-security setting. JMSF is known for its structured environment and rehabilitative programming.

2. The Female Secure Care and Intake Facility – Also located in Bordentown, on the same campus as JMSF, this facility is the only state-run detention center for female juvenile offenders in New Jersey. It operates at a medium-security level and provides gender-specific programming.

3. New Jersey Training School (NJTS) – Commonly referred to as “Jamesburg”, the New Jersey Training School in Monroe Township is the state’s largest and oldest juvenile correctional facility. It accommodates male juvenile offenders and operates at a higher security level than JMSF. Established in 1867, NJTS has faced widespread criticism over the years for its punitive structure and outdated conditions.

In addition to the long-term state-run facilities, New Jersey counties operate short-term juvenile detention centers for youth awaiting adjudication. These county-level facilities are designed for temporary stays, but some juveniles may remain detained for weeks or months before their cases are resolved.

Currently, the following county-operated juvenile detention centers remain active:

• Camden County Juvenile Detention Center (Lakeland Complex) – Located in Blackwood, NJ, serving juveniles from Camden and surrounding counties.
• Essex County Juvenile Detention Center – Located in Newark, one of the largest and most frequently utilized juvenile detention centers in New Jersey.
• Hudson County Juvenile Detention Center – Located in Secaucus, serving juveniles from Hudson and other northern New Jersey counties.
• Middlesex County Juvenile Detention Center – Located in North Brunswick, primarily housing juveniles from Middlesex County.
• Morris County Juvenile Detention Center – Located in Morris Township, for juveniles from Morris, Sussex, Warren, and Hunterdon counties.
• Ocean County Juvenile Detention Center – Located in Toms River, this facility is for juveniles from Ocean County and surrounding areas.
• Union County Juvenile Detention Center – Located in Linden, this facility is for juveniles from Union County.

Closed Juvenile Detention Centers in New Jersey

Over the past two decades, New Jersey has closed multiple juvenile detention centers in an effort to reform the juvenile justice system and reduce youth incarceration rates. Some of the most notable closures include:

• Bergen County Juvenile Detention Center – Closed in 2011, juveniles from Bergen County are now sent to Essex County’s facility in Newark.
• Mercer County Juvenile Detention Center – Closed in 2015, juveniles from Mercer County are now housed in Essex County or other contracted facilities.
• Monmouth County Youth Detention Center – Closed in 2016, juveniles from Monmouth County are now held in Middlesex County’s facility.
• Gloucester County Juvenile Detention Center – Closed in 2012, with juveniles transferred to Camden County’s facility.
• Passaic County Juvenile Detention Center – Closed in 2010, with juveniles now held in Essex County or other nearby facilities.

Sexual Abuse at New Jersey Juvenile Detention Centers

New Jersey’s juvenile detention centers have a long and disturbing history of sexual abuse of inmates. The New Jersey Juvenile Justice Commission, the agency responsible for running many of these facilities, has repeatedly failed in its basic duty to protect the children under its care. This is not some new revelation—investigations, lawsuits, and public outrage have been pointing to these systemic failures for years. But the problems keep coming back, and the people responsible keep pretending they have no idea why.

These juvenile facilities have operated with such gross negligence that abuse became not an unfortunate exception but a disturbingly common occurrence. The combination of poor oversight, nonexistent monitoring, and a training program that might as well have been written on the back of a napkin created an environment where predatory staff members could operate with impunity. The reality is that when institutions turn a blind eye, predators take full advantage. There were no meaningful safeguards, no real accountability, and no actual urgency to fix the problem. The result? A system that allowed staff to prey on vulnerable children with little fear of consequences, all while taxpayers footed the bill.

Perhaps NJJC’s most appalling failure was its consistent refusal to take inmate complaints seriously. When juvenile detainees reported abuse, those reports were brushed aside, dismissed outright, or buried under bureaucratic nonsense.  Imagine being a child in that situation.  The people in charge did not just ignore these complaints—they actively contributed to the culture of silence. In some cases, administrators went out of their way to protect abusers, ensuring that their colleagues were shielded from scrutiny rather than the victims being shielded from harm. If the goal was to create a master class in institutional failure, NJJC exceeded expectations.

Civil Lawsuits for Sexual Abuse of Juvenile Inmates in New Jersey

NJJC has a legal obligation to take reasonable measures to ensure that juvenile inmates in their custody are kept safe from sexual abuse and assaults. This includes not just sexual assault by staff, but also by other inmates. This obligation required NJJC to adopt various policies and procedures for protecting inmates from sexual abuse, and to actually follow and enforce those policies.

There is mounting evidence showing that NJJC systematically failed to fulfill this duty. Despite previous reports of abuse, state authorities and their employees did not take adequate action to prevent further harm. This negligence included poor supervision of staff, insufficient policies, inadequate employee training, and a failure to implement effective safety measures.

NJJC can be held accountable for this failure in civil lawsuits. Anyone who was the victim of sexual abuse while they were an inmate at a juvenile detention center in New Jersey can bring a civil lawsuit against NJJC for negligently enabling that abuse to occur.

Identification of the Abuser

One of the biggest misconceptions about detnentsexual abuse lawsuits is that victims must know the full name of their abuser in order to bring a case. That is simply not true. Some of the strongest cases actually come from survivors who cannot identify their abuser by name. In many instances, victims may only remember a general description—a uniform, a rank, or even just the setting where the abuse occurred. This is particularly common in juvenile detention facilities, where staff turnover is high, shifts change frequently, and many officers go by informal names or nicknames.

The reality is that the strength of these cases does not rest solely on identifying an individual abuser. Many cases focus on the broader institutional failure—the negligence of the facility itself, which allowed abuse to happen in the first place. When patterns of misconduct emerge, and when multiple victims describe similar forms of abuse within the same facility, the case becomes about systemic failure rather than just one predator. The legal process allows attorneys to uncover crucial information through discovery, such as internal records, personnel files, and past complaints, which can reveal the identities of those responsible.

While naming a specific abuser can strengthen a case, it is not a requirement. In fact, many of the most compelling lawsuits involve multiple plaintiffs who were harmed by a culture of abuse, not just by one individual. If an abuser had a history of complaints or was later criminally charged, that evidence can reinforce a case—but even in the absence of that, the institution itself can still be held accountable. At the end of the day, these cases are about more than identifying one bad actor; they are about exposing a system that failed to protect vulnerable children and ensuring that those responsible—whether individuals or institutions—are held liable.

Settlement Amounts and Jury Payouts in New Jersey Juvenile Detention Center Sex Abuse Lawsuits

The settlement amounts and jury payouts in New Jersey juvenile detention center sex abuse lawsuits depend on a combination of legal strategy, institutional accountability, and whether the state chooses to settle or fight. Below are the key factors that influence potential compensation for survivors.

Severity and Impact of the Abuse

The extent of the abuse suffered plays a major role in determining settlement payouts. Lawsuits involving severe and repeated abuse—especially those with documented PTSD, depression, anxiety, or other lasting mental health conditions—typically result in higher jury verdicts and settlement amounts. Even without a formal diagnosis, victims can still present a strong claim. Expert testimony from psychologists and psychiatrists can help establish the long-term damage caused by the abuse.

Age of the Victim at the Time of Abuse

The younger the victim, the greater the long-term consequences. This is less about what happened at the time of the abuse, as awful as that was.  It is more about how that trauma follows victims into adulthood, affecting their education, relationships, and career opportunities. Younger victims often receive higher settlement compenation because their road to recovery is longer and more difficult.

Strength of Evidence and Institutional Negligence

A victim’s testimony can be enough to establish that abuse occurred.  It is important to make that crystal clear. But additional evidence makes it much harder for institutions to deny responsibility. Internal reports, witness statements, prior complaints against abusers—these details increase settlement value. If records show that administrators ignored warnings or allowed abusers to remain in contact with children, settlements tend to increase significantly. Some institutions do everything they can to protect themselves. When systemic negligence is proven, jury awards can be through the roof and that is reflected in compensation amounts.

Identification of the Perpetrator

Identifying the abuser is not required for a successful claim. However, it strengthens the case, especially if the perpetrator has a history of misconduct. If records show that the institution ignored previous reports of abuse, it becomes much harder for the defense to argue against liability. This often leads to higher settlement payouts.

New Jersey Laws and Legal Venue

New Jersey law plays a major role in determining settlement amounts. In 2019, the state extended the statute of limitations for child sex abuse lawsuits, allowing more victims to seek justice. Most lawsuits against state-run juvenile detention facilities are handled in New Jersey state courts, though some cases may be brought in federal court. Some states aggressively fight these claims to limit their financial exposure. Others work toward reasonable settlements. New Jersey’s record is inconsistent.

Comparative Settlements and Jury Awards

Settlement values in New Jersey juvenile detention center sex abuse cases vary widely. When abuse is isolated and difficult to prove, settlement amounts may be lower. When an institution has a well-documented history of abuse and negligence, settlements can reach into the millions. In other states, similar lawsuits have resulted in massive jury payouts, particularly when systemic abuse was uncovered. Many cases settle out of court. Some go to trial. Juries do not react well to evidence that the state allowed children in its care to be abused.

New Jersey Statute of Limitations for Sexual Abuse Lawsuits

In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for filing civil lawsuits related to sexual abuse has undergone significant changes to better support survivors seeking justice.

2019 Legislative Reforms

Recognizing the profound and lasting impact of sexual abuse, New Jersey enacted significant legislative reforms in 2019. The key provisions include:

• Extended Filing Period for Child Victims: Survivors of childhood sexual abuse now have until they reach 55 years of age, or within seven years from the date they became aware of the abuse’s impact on their lives, whichever is later, to file a civil lawsuit.
• Extended Filing Period for Adult Victims: Individuals who were sexually abused as adults have seven years from the date of the incident to initiate legal action.

2024 Legislative Update

As of January 1, 2024, New Jersey has enacted significant changes to its statute of limitations laws concerning civil claims of childhood sexual abuse. Under the revised statutes, for incidents occurring on or after this date, there is no statute of limitations for filing such civil lawsuits. This means that survivors of childhood sexual abuse can initiate legal action at any time, regardless of how much time has passed since the abuse occurred.

This change is not retroactive. For incidents that occurred before January 1, 2024, the previous deadline to file still applies. Specifically, survivors of childhood sexual abuse have until they reach 55 years of age or within seven years from the date they became aware of the abuse’s impact, whichever is later, to file a civil lawsuit. This distinction means that while the new law offers extended timeframes for recent and future cases, it does not alter the filing deadlines for incidents that took place prior to 2024.

Implications for Juvenile Detention Center Abuse Survivors

These legislative changes are particularly pertinent for individuals who suffered sexual abuse within New Jersey’s juvenile detention centers. The extended timeframes acknowledge the unique challenges survivors face, including delayed recognition of abuse and its effects. By providing a more extended period to come forward, the law aims to facilitate access to justice for those previously hindered by stringent deadlines.

Contact Us About New Jersey Juvenile Detention Center Sex Abuse Lawsuits

We are accepting New Jersey juvenile detention center sex abuse lawsuits. Call us at 800-553-8082 or contact us online.