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Baltimore resident Sarah Emala has filed a lawsuit against Highland Assembly of God and its former youth leader, Roosevelt Hensley, Jr. The allegations, outlined in a recent filing under Maryland’s Child Victims Act (CVA), bring to light the devastating consequences of institutional negligence and abuse of trust by those in positions of authority.
The Allegations Against Highland Assembly of God
The lawsuit details that Hensley, a youth leader at the Highland Assembly of God, allegedly sexually abused Ms. Emala while she was a minor, beginning in 1999. According to the complaint, the abuse occurred during Hensley’s tenure as a mentor, counselor, and educator within the church, with some incidents taking place on church premises.
The legal filing further alleges that the Highland Assembly of God failed to:
- Conduct proper background checks on Hensley, despite his criminal history.
- Implement adequate policies and training to prevent child abuse.
- Supervise Hensley and others entrusted with access to children.
This failure, the lawsuit argues, created an environment where abuse could occur and flourish.
The Role of Maryland’s Child Victims Act
Passed to provide justice for survivors of childhood sexual abuse, the Child Victims Act eliminates the statute of limitations for civil claims involving child sexual abuse. This law allows survivors like Ms. Emala to bring their claims forward, no matter how much time has passed since the abuse occurred.
Leveraging this legislation empowers survivors to hold institutions accountable for their failure to protect vulnerable children.
Why Institutional Accountability Matters
This case highlights a troubling pattern in cases of institutional abuse: negligence in addressing risks and implementing safeguards to protect children. Institutions that work with minors have a moral and legal duty to create safe environments. When these responsibilities are ignored, it puts countless children at risk of harm.
According to research, institutions often fail to take proactive measures to prevent abuse, such as:
- Requiring comprehensive background checks for all staff and volunteers.
- Mandating regular training on recognizing and reporting child abuse.
- Establishing clear policies and reporting mechanisms for abuse allegations.
Seeking Justice for Survivors
For survivors like Ms. Emala, the trauma caused by childhood sexual abuse is lifelong, impacting mental health, relationships, and earning potential. By pursuing legal action, survivors not only seek compensation for their suffering but also help shine a light on institutional failings that must be addressed to prevent future harm.
How Survivors Can Take Action
If you or someone you know is a survivor of childhood sexual abuse, there are steps you can take to seek justice:
- Contact an Experienced Attorney: Law firms like Andreozzi + Foote specialize in representing survivors of sexual abuse. They can guide you through the legal process with compassion and expertise.
- Understand Rights Under the Child Victims Act: Laws like the CVA provide an opportunity for survivors to hold perpetrators and institutions accountable.
- Seek Support: Healing from abuse is a journey. Support groups, therapy, and resources from organizations like RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) can provide invaluable assistance.
The lawsuit filed by Andreozzi + Foote and Sarah Emala against Highland Assembly of God is a powerful reminder that institutions must be held accountable. By taking legal action, survivors not only seek justice but also help drive the systemic changes necessary to protect future generations.
