Folsom Women’s Facility Sexual Abuse Lawsuit

The Folsom Women’s Facility in Represa, California was once part of the historic Folsom State Prison Complex operating from 2013 until its closure in 2023. Many former inmates are now coming forward alleging sexual assault and abuse by correctional staff while housed at Folsom. Over the last decade, hundreds of women have filed lawsuits against California Women’s Prisons, including the Folsom Women’s Facility, the California Institution for Women, and the Central California Women’s Facility.

Survivors say that the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation failed to protect them, turning a blind eye to sexual misconduct and failing to discipline officers accused of abuse. In fact, a single law firm has filed more than 135 lawsuits involving 147 survivors. Allegations include rape, groping during searches, and threats of punishment to silence victims.

Under California law, inmates have fundamental rights, including the right to be treated with dignity, to be free from abuse and discrimination, and to access grievance procedures. These protections are reinforced by federal law under the Prison Rape Elimination Act or PREA. Survivors of prison sexual assault also have legal options. They can report incidents to law enforcement, to the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, or to the Office of the Inspector General’s PREA Ombudsperson. And through civil lawsuit, survivors can pursue financial compensation for medical bills, psychological trauma, and other damages.

If you or someone you love experienced sexual assault or misconduct by staff at the Folsom Women’s Facility, even if it happened years ago, you may still have the right to file a civil lawsuit. At Helping Survivors, our mission is to heal, educate, and empower victims of sexual violence. We provide resources, support, and connections to experienced sexual assault attorneys who work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay unless they win your case. To learn more about your rights and options, contact Helping Survivors today.