In our continued fight against the physical, emotional, and sexual abuse that occurred at Cook County Juvenile Detention Center and Illinois Youth Centers, Anapol Weiss, along with co-counsel, has filed an additional 107 lawsuits on behalf of survivors. We announced these filings at a recent press conference held in downtown Chicago.
Survivors Bravely Speak Out and Demand Accountability
During the press conference, survivors bravely shared firsthand accounts of the harm they suffered while in the state’s custody. Kate-Lynn, who found herself in the juvenile justice system after losing her father, recalled a devastating story of abuse. “I remember a 300-pound male staff member sitting on top of my naked body, forcing me to lie on the ground. Throughout the incident, he inappropriately touched me in places I would rather not discuss in this setting. I was left bruised, naked, shackled, handcuffed, and unable to move.”
Kate-Lynn also recalled at least five staff members going into her cell and stripping her clothes off. The abuse left deep wounds for those who experienced it. “The trauma we have to endure doesn’t just disappear from our memories,” said fellow survivor, Michael Moss. “I struggle trusting others and tend to shut down those around me.”
The majority of abuse, which was predominantly aimed at teenage boys from the Black and brown communities, occurred in the early 2000s. However, the lawsuits filed detailed abuse as early as 1995 and as late as 2022. Charles Graves, who was in the juvenile facility at just 13 years old, said, “They [the detention facilities] were only there for our gain, the game of taking our innocence and manipulating our minds. With me never having known love or the security of family, the officers were able to bend my mind to their own will. I was sexually assaulted by three officers throughout my time in the juvenile correctional system in the state of Illinois.”
Many of the victims were either threatened with violence, longer sentences, and solitary confinement, or bribed with candy, fast food, and video games if they kept quiet.
But they are not staying silent anymore.
In a statement read aloud during the press conference, a survivor identified as J.B. 2, wrote, “I want to let my fellow survivors know that we are not alone in this. Speaking your truth, no matter how gruesome it is, can help set you free from yourself and all the hurt that’s been bottled up.”
Holding Illinois Detention Centers Responsible for the Rampant Sexual Abuse That Occurred at Their Facilities
This isn’t the first press conference Anapol Weiss has held. On February 11, 2025, Kristen Gibbons Feden, a shareholder with Anapol Weiss and the head of our sexual abuse practice, along with co-counsel held a press conference to put a spotlight on the egregious abuse that occurred at Cook County Juvenile Detention Center and Illinois Youth Centers, as well as the state’s attempt to dismiss the case: “What happened wasn’t just a violation of policy, it was a violation of basic human dignity,” one survivor shared.
This sentiment continued to echo throughout the July 16th press conference, with one brave survivor stating, “They took away my freedom, and then they took away my safety. I was a child. And no one listened.”
The state’s response to these horrific acts has fallen extremely short of what justice demands. Despite more than 900 active claims filed, the Illinois Attorney General’s office has not opened any investigations nor issued a public statement about the claims, further silencing victims. Currently, 15 lawsuits have identified the current Mayor of Eldorado, Rocky James, yet no investigation has been filed on him or any other alleged perpetrators. He has held his mayoral position since 2007.
Furthermore, on June 9, 2025, Attorney General Kwame Raoul filed a motion to dismiss based on the false claim that the survivors were required to file a lawsuit before they turned 19. Under the Illinois Childhood Sexual Abuse Act, there is no such restriction, and survivors of sexual abuse can come forward at any time.
“The state’s position reflects a fundamental misunderstanding,” Feden said. “Expecting survivors of childhood sexual abuse to navigate legal deadlines while still in custody is indefensible.”
Now, more than a year after the first lawsuits were filed, the same battle is raging on, but Anapol Weiss is at the forefront. “It’s been over 12 months since this litigation began, and not a single abuser has been investigated,” said Feden. “We’re doing what the state won’t.”
Anapol Weiss is Fighting for Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse
There are now over 900 claims of sexual abuse filed against the Cook County Juvenile Detention Center and Illinois Youth Centers. As more brave survivors come forward, we anticipate this number will only grow.
We are actively calling for full transparency from the state of Illinois, accountability for the egregious acts of harm that were committed, and comprehensive reform so these acts never happen again.
If you were subjected to physical or sexual abuse while under the care of the Cook County Juvenile Detention Center or Illinois Youth Centers, please contact us. This fight isn’t just about compensation. It’s about finally getting the justice you deserve and have long been owed. Our firm understands the complex emotions involved in coming forward. Rest assured, we are here for you. We believe you. And we are here to fight for accountability.
Contact us today at 215-608-9645 to confidentially speak to our team about your case. You want to fight. We already are.
Watch more:
- More juvenile detention center abuse lawsuits filed
- More than 900 people now allege abuse at Illinois, Cook County juvenile detention facilities
- Another 107 former detainees allege sexual abuse in Illinois and Cook County youth detention centers
Disclaimer: This blog is intended for informational purposes only and does not establish an attorney-client relationship. It should not be considered as legal advice. For personalized legal assistance, please consult our team directly.
