Hagens Berman: Lawsuit Grows Against Snohomish County Alleging Sexual Abuse at Everett Juvenile Detention Centers
Nine new plaintiffs join Denney lawsuit, say county “sustained a culture of abuse”
Hagens Berman attorneys filed a new lawsuit this week against Snohomish County alleging sexual abuse of incarcerated minors at Denney Youth Center or Denney Juvenile Justice Center.
The new filing details ongoing abuse, disclosed by nine new plaintiffs: “Rather than protect these children and teenagers, Snohomish County sustained a culture of abuse through a variety of harmful practices that harmed the child inmates.” These practices include invasive and sexualized strip and/or cavity searches, and the county’s refusal to take any action to protect the children following their reports of abuse. Seattle-based Hagens Berman now represents 21 formerly incarcerated youth in the lawsuit, in addition to a tandem lawsuit brought against the facilities on behalf of employees who were retaliated against for reporting sexual harassment.
“The accounts of our clients are truly heartbreaking, and we are fighting to uphold their rights to justice and recourse in light of these shocking practices right here in Snohomish County,” said Jacob Berman, attorney representing minor plaintiffs in the case. “Our case against the county is growing, and we look forward to holding accountable those responsible for this ongoing and pervasive pattern of behavior.”
