Protecting the Most Vulnerable: Justice for Children Exploited by Predators
Recently, a Latham school counselor was sentenced to 15 years in prison for child exploitation, while a writing instructor and her school, the Christian Brothers Academy, are now facing a civil suit from the alleged victims from 2005. These events continue to bring into focus a heartbreaking yet all too common issue: the exploitation of vulnerable children. Cases like this serve as a reminder that there are predators who take advantage of society’s most defenseless individuals.
Exploitation of anyone, but especially children, has devastating and far-reaching effects. The trauma inflicted on victims can last a lifetime. It’s not uncommon for exploited children to experience ongoing mental health struggles, such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and trust and self-worth issues that can follow them into adulthood. While criminal courts offer some level of closure by punishing the offenders, healing from the emotional damage can take much longer.
When a predator is sentenced to prison, it’s a significant step toward justice for the child involved. In the Latham case, the court handed down a 15-year sentence, sending a powerful message that the law takes these crimes seriously. While a criminal conviction may remove the abuser from society, it does not directly compensate the victim for the emotional, psychological, and even financial toll the exploitation has caused. In many cases, the families of the victims might feel that criminal punishment alone is not enough.
This is where civil litigation comes into play. Through the civil justice system, victims and their families can file lawsuits against the abuser or, in some cases, the institutions that allow abuse to happen. Civil cases offer additional closure by holding responsible parties financially accountable.
A successful civil lawsuit may result in monetary compensation for the victim, which could pay for long-term care costs like counseling, medical care, and other treatments. This support can make a significant difference in the recovery process by mitigating the lasting effects of the trauma and offering victims a chance to regain some control over their lives.
Moreover, civil cases can often uncover systemic issues—such as neglect or failures by institutions (schools, camps, or religious organizations)—that may have contributed to the abuse. Holding these entities accountable brings justice for the victim and protects other children from future harm.
For guardians who discover their child may have been exploited, taking swift legal action is critical. This includes contacting authorities, such as local law enforcement and child protective services, to report the abuse. Additionally, they should consult with a lawyer who specializes in child exploitation cases and can provide guidance on next steps.
Experienced attorneys, like Dreyer Boyajian, can help families understand their rights, the compensation they may be entitled to, and what they can do to protect their child moving forward. To schedule a free initial consultation at your convenience, please call us at 518-463-7784 or contact us online.
