Children suffer abuse at summer camps across California all too frequently. This may include physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, and even neglect. Abusers can be held liable, as well as camp personnel and other parties who fail to take action when they have knowledge that such abuse is occurring. The Senators Firm represents your family when your child has been the victim of summer camp abuse, and we fiercely fight for the justice and resources you need.
Abusers are Directly Liable for Summer Camp Abuse
Sadly, summer camp is not always a safe place for children. Their abusers can be anyone who has access to them and who may be able to get them alone. Some abusers may even groom children to gain their trust before engaging in more sinister behavior, making it less likely that the child will say anything. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), child abuse and neglect affected one in seven children during the most recent year of data. These statistics highlight the very real dangers children may be exposed to at camp. Abusers are directly responsible for the harm they inflict on children, and can be held liable as a result.
Summer Camps and Camp Personnel Can be Liable for Insufficient Action
Summer camps are responsible for providing a secure and safe environment for children. Proper training, policies, and safety protocols should be in place to prevent abuse from occurring, and outline how to respond if it does take place. As mandatory reporters, summer camp personnel should know what signs to look for and the proper reporting process. When camps fail to implement these safety procedures, or fail to report instances of known or suspected abuse, they can be held liable for endangering the children in their care.
Additional Parties Who Can be Held Accountable for Summer Camp Abuse
In addition to abusers and summer camps, children may also be abused by other parties connected with the camp. Depending on the situation, owners of the property where the camp is hosted and organizations that staff the camp may contribute to child abuse. Medical professionals can also be at fault if they treat a child who shows signs of abuse and they fail to report it. These and other parties can put children at risk and contribute to injuries and trauma that can have lasting effects, even into adulthood.
The Senators Firm Provides Compassionate Legal System When Your Child has Suffered Abuse at Summer Camp
All parties who work at summer camps or interact with them in some way have an obligation to report child abuse, whether they are a mandated reporter or not. Families should also be aware of what signs to look for and what to do if their child was abused at a camp in California so they can swiftly step in and protect their child. The Senators Firm also provides valuable support during this difficult time so that you are not alone, can hold the correct party accountable for their actions, and recover valuable compensation.