While law enforcement officers are hired and trained to protect and serve, there are some who do just the opposite. There are law enforcement officers who sexual abuse those who are in custody and, in some cases, civilians who are not in custody. While most law enforcement officers are hardworking, law-abiding individuals who fulfill their duties honorably, there are some who do not. Those who sexual abuse others should be held accountable. For a number of reasons, victims often remain silent for years about being sexually abused by law enforcement. Those who do speak up are often discredited or retaliated against. As a result, they do not receive justice. Because of the statute of limitations, many have no hope over every receiving justice. Because of a change in the law, there is now an opportunity for those who were not able to receive justice for so many yeas to receive it. If you are a survivor of law enforcement sexual abuse, contact an experienced New York sexual abuse lawyer at Stephen Bilkis & Associates. With a track record of winning substantial verdicts for our clients, we can help you pursue compensation for the abuse you suffered.
Adult Survivors ActOn May 24, 2022, the governor of New York signed the Adult Survivors Act. This law took into account that fact that there are many barriers to adult victims of sexual abuse coming forward and reporting the abuse. It also takes into account that even when abuse is reported, it is not properly investigated or addressed.
The Adult Survivors Act applies to instances of sexual abuse where the statute of limitations has expired. It temporarily waives the statute of limitations for adult survivors of sexual abuse and gives them a one year window to file a sexual abuse lawsuit. The one year window begins on November 24, 2022 and ends on November 23, 2023. The Adult Survivors Act allows for justice for survivors of law enforcement sexual abuse as well as adult sexual abuse in other environments.
Survivors of law enforcement sexual abuse must act immediately. Once the one year window closes on November 23, 2023, there will not be another opportunity to file civil actions in cases where the statute of limitations has expired. Contact an experienced New York sexual abuse lawyer to ensure that you do not miss out on this unique opportunity.
Adult Sexual AbuseThe Adult Survivors Act applies to any sex offense described in N.Y. Pen. Law § 130 et seq., including rape, sexual abuse, or forcible touching. It can involve vaginal or anal penetration, including penetration using an object. It can involving forcing the victim to have sex with another person. It can involve being forced to touch the abuser. It can also involve exposing genitals. Even lewd comments by a law enforcement officer is a type of sexual misconduct. When it comes to sexual assault by a law enforcement officer, it often comes with a threat of retaliation should the victim report the abuse.
If you abused by a law enforcement officer, contact an experienced sexual abuse attorney serving New York to discuss your case. Just like in any personal jury case, you may be entitled to substantial compensation not only for any physical injuries you suffered, but also for the emotional pain and suffering you endured. Because of the reprehensible nature of sexual abuse by law enforcement, courts are likely to award punitive damages as well.
Contact Stephen Bilkis & AssociatesIf you were incarcerated at Albion Correctional Facility and were sexually abused by the corrections officers or other staff who were there to protect you, you have the right to file a claim for significant compensation. Under the law, the window to file your claim is just one year beginning on November 24, 2022 and ending on November 23, 2023. Contact an experienced sexual abuse attorney serving New York at Stephen Bilkis & Associates at 800.696.9529 to schedule a free, no obligation consultation regarding your case. We represent clients in the Manhattan, Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, Nassau County, Suffolk County, Long Island, and Westchester County.