A lawsuit filed on April 29, 2025, in King County Superior Court alleges systemic negligence by the county in its handling of sexual abuse claims at its juvenile and adult detention facilities, spanning from the late 1960s to the early 2000s. The complaint, brought by 36 former juvenile detainees, reportedly accuses the county of allowing abuse by guards, probation officers, a nurse, a teacher, and even a judge during their time in custody.
The plaintiffs, all minors at the time, describe graphic incidents of rape, groping, voyeurism, and forced sexual contact. These abuses allegedly occurred in areas with limited supervision, such as bathrooms, supply closets, and cells, often under the threat of longer sentences or loss of privileges if they spoke out. Some staff members reportedly manipulated the victims by offering food, drugs, or candy to suppress their complaints.
The Role of Institutional Negligence and Ignored Red Flags
The lawsuit accuses King County of institutional negligence, alleging that the county failed to adopt adequate reporting systems and ignored clear signs of abuse. Survivors claim that King County delayed the implementation of federal standards designed to prevent sexual misconduct in detention facilities, including the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA), which became law in 2003. The county reportedly did not adopt a “zero tolerance” policy for sexual abuse until 2015, more than a decade after PREA’s passage.
One of the most shocking allegations involves Judge Gary Little, a former King County Superior Court judge, who allegedly abused multiple boys during his tenure. The lawsuit claims that Judge Little used his judicial position to lure minors into his chambers and even took some to his home, where they were sexually assaulted. Little died by suicide in 1988, shortly before a news article detailing his actions was set to publish. Despite this, the lawsuit alleges that King County failed to take action on these allegations and continued to allow him to serve as a judge.
The Scope of the Abuse
The 36 plaintiffs in the lawsuit, who were subjected to abuse between the 1960s and the 2000s, allege that King County’s systemic failures allowed the abuse to persist for decades. The lawsuit names other figures, including guards and probation officers, who allegedly committed abuses without fear of repercussions. The plaintiffs contend that the lack of oversight and accountability within the county’s system allowed sexual misconduct to flourish.
One of the plaintiffs, Justin Reed Early, who was 10 years old when he met Judge Little, reportedly described how Little began grooming him with special attention before eventually sexually abusing him. Early claims the abuse continued for years, even after he was released from detention. His experience mirrors those of other plaintiffs who describe being manipulated and silenced by figures of authority.
King County’s Response
In response to the allegations, a spokesperson for King County issued a statement expressing the county’s commitment to thoroughly investigating the claims and ensuring the safety of youth in its custody. “We will be thoroughly investigating each claim. We are committed to the safety and well-being of all youth in our juvenile detention facility. We will continue to uphold robust standards to protect young people in our care from harm,” the statement read.
However, many plaintiffs argue that the county’s response has been inadequate, highlighting a history of failure to protect minors from custodial sexual misconduct.
The Path Forward
This lawsuit represents a crucial moment in the fight for justice for survivors of abuse in the juvenile justice system. The plaintiffs’ courage in coming forward is a testament to the resilience of those silenced for so long. As legal proceedings continue, the case against King County highlights the urgent need for reform in juvenile detention facilities nationwide.
At Helping Survivors, we are dedicated to supporting those affected by abuse in juvenile detention centers. If you or someone you know has been a victim of abuse in such a facility, you may have legal options. Our experienced team is here to help you seek justice and hold those responsible accountable.
