For decades, young people entrusted to King County’s juvenile detention facilities were supposed to be protected, not preyed upon. But a recent lawsuit reveals horrific allegations of systemic sexual abuse spanning years, with dozens of former detainees coming forward to demand justice.
If you or a loved one suffered abuse while in custody in a King County juvenile detention facility in Washington, you are not alone. Our firm is committed to holding those responsible accountable and fighting for the compensation and closure survivors deserve.
Allegations of Abuse
New lawsuits allege that staff and other detainees sexually assaulted vulnerable youth in King County’s juvenile detention centers, with reports indicating abuse as far back as the 1980s. According to local outlet KIRO 7, in early May 2025, a lawsuit was filed “on behalf of 36 former juvenile detention detainees, alleging that King County officials and employees perpetrated or enabled decades of systemic sexual abuse at those facilities.”
“The plaintiffs – men and women who were minors when detained, some as young as 11 years old – describe being allegedly assaulted by correctional officers, probation officers, healthcare staff, and even a sitting Superior Court judge,” the outlet revealed. “The complaint also claims that the county ‘fostered a culture of abuse and impunity, ignoring red flags, failing to train or adequately supervise staff, allowing for blind spots in surveillance, and refusing to implement safeguards.’”
Survivors of this abuse describe a culture of neglect, cover-ups, and retaliation that allowed predators to operate. We believe these facilities failed in their most basic duty: to keep children safe. And we want to help survivors seek justice.
Work With Us on King County Juvenile Detention Facility Abuse Cases
No one should endure such trauma, especially while under the state’s care. The legal system exists to provide recourse, and our firm is dedicated to ensuring survivors’ voices are heard. If you were abused while in the care of one of the King County juvenile detention facilities, we may be able to assist you or refer you to a trusted partner law firm that can.
You may have legal options, including financial compensation for medical care, therapy, and emotional suffering. Our team can help you pursue justice against perpetrators and institutions that enabled the abuse, and maybe give all survivors of abuse in these facilities a chance to demand systemic change so no more children face similar harm.
Survivors of institutional abuse deserve compassionate, relentless legal representation. Phillips Law Group understands the courage it takes to come forward, and we handle every case with the discretion, respect, and fierce advocacy this type of lawsuit requires.
If you or someone you love was abused in King County’s juvenile detention system, contact us today for a free, confidential consultation. You are under no obligation to continue working with us after the initial consultation.
You don’t have to face this fight alone. Let us help you take the first step toward justice by calling 602-222-2222 today to learn more about your legal options.
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