Survivors Take Legal Action Against Baltimore City and Jewish Community Services for Foster Home Sexual Abuse
For decades, institutions like Baltimore City’s Department of Public Welfare and Jewish Community Services (JCS) were entrusted with caring for vulnerable children. Yet, that trust was betrayed when officials ignored alarming reports of sexual abuse, allowing it to persist unchecked.
Four survivors—E.M.C., E.W.C., P.G., and E.J.—have bravely stepped forward, filing a lawsuit against these institutions for failing to protect them from sexual predators while in the Spurrier Foster Home. As represented by Andreozzi + Foote, they seek justice under Maryland’s Child Victims Act.
The Shocking Failures of Baltimore’s Foster Care System
The lawsuit outlines repeated failures by both JCS and Baltimore City’s child welfare authorities. Despite multiple disclosures of abuse—some as early as the 1960s—officials failed to intervene. Instead of removing the children from danger, authorities ignored their pleas, allowing known perpetrators to continue their abuse.
Key allegations in the lawsuit include:
- Failure to act on direct reports: Survivors disclosed abuse to foster parents, church officials, and social workers, yet no action was taken.
- Lack of supervision and screening: The institutions responsible failed to vet foster homes or monitor children’s well-being properly.
- Neglect and physical abuse: In addition to sexual abuse, survivors were subjected to extreme neglect, including food deprivation and physical punishment.
Why This Lawsuit Matters
Cases like this highlight the systemic failures within foster care systems nationwide. By holding institutions accountable, survivors are not only seeking justice for themselves but also advocating for reform to prevent future abuse.
“The goal is to ensure no other child endures what our clients suffered,” said Attorney Nathaniel Foote. “These institutions failed in their fundamental duty to protect children, and now, they must answer for it.”
Legal Options for Foster Care Abuse Survivors
Survivors of childhood sexual abuse in Maryland now have expanded legal rights under the Child Victims Act. This law removes the statute of limitations for civil claims, allowing survivors to seek justice regardless of when the abuse occurred. If you or someone you know has experienced abuse, legal action may be possible.
Seeking Justice: How Andreozzi + Foote Can Help
Andreozzi + Foote has a long history of representing survivors of institutional sexual abuse and fighting for accountability and justice. If you were harmed in a foster home, our experienced Maryland sexual abuse attorneys can help you explore your options.
Contact us today to learn more about your legal rights and how we can support your pursuit of justice. 1-(866) 311-8640