Rikers Island Sexual Abuse

In this video, we are discussing the ongoing issue of sexual abuse at Rikers Island, including legal rights and options for those impacted and how you can seek help today.

Over the years, hundreds of severe sexual abuse cases have been reported at Rikers Island spanning decades. While these incidents have happened to all genders, the ongoing media attention has focused on female inmates at Rose M. Singer Center, also known as Rosie’s.

As of today, more than 700 sexual abuse lawsuits have been filed by female inmates against the Department of Corrections, seeking a staggering $14 billion in damages. Over the years, New York City has already agreed to pay millions in settlements to victims of sexual abuse perpetrated by Rikers Island staff members.

These lawsuits have become possible thanks to legal reforms like the New York Adult Survivors Act, which has now expired, and the New York City Gender-Motivated Violence Act, which is effective until March 1, 2025.

These acts have provided victims previously silenced by legal time constraints a chance to file civil lawsuits for the sexual abuse that happened to them while incarcerated at Rikers. 

Examples of the abuse reported include prison staff engaging in inappropriate searches, groping, and more severe assaults including forced oral sex and rape. It has been reported that these incidents often occur out of sight, in areas without surveillance such as cleaning closets.

If you or someone you know has been impacted, you have legal rights – even if the harm happened years ago. With the NYC GMVA, individuals can file a lawsuit against the NYC Department of Corrections and other relevant third parties regardless of when the harm happened – but this Act expires March 1, 2025.

After this expires, individuals will still have the ability to file sexual abuse claims but these will fall under the traditional civil statute of limitations in New York. This is why speaking to someone as soon as possible, even if you are unsure how to label what happened to you or how you want to proceed is critical.

We can connect you with an experienced attorney who can help you understand your rights and options for free. If you choose to move forward and file a claim, they can represent you on contingency meaning there are no upfront costs to pursuing a claim for Rikers Island sexual abuse perpetrated by a correctional officer or other staff member.

We’re here to help you understand your rights and options os you an be empowered and informed. Please reach out to us today.