Sexual abuse at a summer camp, sports camp or any other type of camp in Los Angeles can have a permanent effect on a victim. Child sexual abuse often has lasting emotional and psychological consequences that can impact the rest of the victim’s life. The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP can help if you or your child suffered sexual abuse at a camp in Southern California. Contact us for a free case consultation with one of our compassionate camp sexual abuse lawyers to learn more.
Are Children Safe at Summer Camps in Los Angeles?
Camps are settings where children are often away from their parents – sometimes, for the very first time. Unfortunately, this can leave them vulnerable to abuse. Adults and older adolescents in positions of power at the camp may take advantage of young campers to sexually abuse and assault them. These crimes can take place in bunks, cabins, cafeterias, common areas, swimming pools, locker rooms or the grounds. Camp sexual abuse can involve:
- Inappropriate touching
- Kissing
- Groping or fondling
- Penetration
- Child molestation
- Child pornography
- Rape or statutory rape
- Sodomy
One example of sexual abuse at a sports camp in Los Angeles is the closing down of UCLA’s Bruin Woods Camp due to sexual assault and hazing allegations. UCLA faced allegations of sexual assault involving two students who worked at the camp. The survivors stated that they were sexually assaulted and hazed by returning student counselors, including physical abuse and forced nudity. Their lawsuit alleged that these hazing activities were viewed as “traditions” at the camp, which was established in 1985.
Signs of Summer Camp and Sports Camp Abuse
Sexual, physical or emotional abuse at a camp can have devastating consequences for a victim. Being sexually abused or taken advantage of in a place where a child should feel safe and welcome can have various effects on his or her physical and mental well-being. Survivors of camp sexual abuse may exhibit the following signs:
- Unexplained physical injuries
- Genital injuries
- Trouble sitting or walking
- Bloody or stained undergarments
- Changes in personality or behavior
- Withdrawal from others
- Loss of interest in favorite activities
- Signs of depression or anxiety
- Symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder
- Nightmares or bed-wetting
- Inappropriate sexual knowledge or play
- Fear of a certain person or the camp as a whole
Every child is unique. If your child returns home from a summer camp or sports camp in Los Angeles and you notice strange behaviors or potential signs of abuse, talk to him or her. Explain that he or she is safe and not in trouble. Then, take your child to a hospital for medical care and a sexual assault forensic examination. Report your suspicions to the police and administrators at the camp. Next, contact The Senators Firm.
Protecting the Rights of Survivors of Camp Sexual Abuse in Los Angeles
If you or your child was sexually abused while at camp, you have rights. You may be able to pursue justice and financial compensation from the individual perpetrator as well as the owners of the camp. A Los Angeles camp abuse lawyer can help you seek damages from a sports organization, school, university or a privately owned camp for failing to protect its campers from abusive counselors, volunteers and staff. You may qualify for compensation for your past and future related medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Abused at Camp in Los Angeles? Call (949) 557-5800 for a Free Case Review
No camp in Los Angeles is immune to the possibility of camper sexual abuse and assault. If the camp negligently fails to protect its campers, however, this increases the odds of abuse. If you are a survivor of child sexual abuse at a camp or have reason to believe that your child suffered abuse at a summer or sports camp in Los Angeles County, The Senators Firm is here to help. We will listen to your story and believe you. Our Los Angeles camp abuse attorneys can explain your legal rights and guide you through the legal process from start to finish.
We are passionate about protecting survivors of child sexual abuse. Call (949) 557-5800 or send us a message online to request a case consultation today. Initial consultations are always free and confidential.