The Legal Aid Society filed a class action to challenge systemic sexual abuse by correction officers in women’s prisons and the failure of prison authorities to investigate allegations of sexual abuse thoroughly and to discipline staff who have sexually abused incarcerated people. DOCCS perpetuated the abuse of women prisoners by fostering a culture of impunity, where officers were so unlikely to be disciplined for so-called “willing” or “consensual” sexual relationships when reported that they freely disregarded policies governing their behavior, though state law, prison policy, and common sense make clear that people in custody are not able to consent to sexual contact with correction staff.

In 2020, we reached a settlement agreement in which DOCCS agreed to policy changes surrounding its investigation of reports of abuse and staff discipline. DOCCS also agreed to install and maintain video cameras across women’s facilities.

Legal Aid represented several individuals in damages actions against their abusers for the injuries caused by the sexual assaults.