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Andreozzi + Foote filed a federal lawsuit in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania on behalf of S.A., a former inmate at the State Correctional Institution at Cambridge Springs (SCI Cambridge Springs). The lawsuit alleges that Correctional Officer Alfonzia Newsome sexually assaulted S.A. and that the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections (DOC) failed to protect her from such abuse.
Allegations of Sexual Assault at Cambridge Springs
According to the complaint, on December 11, 2022, S.A. was returning to her cell when Officer Newsome followed her. Standing at the entrance of her cell, Newsome allegedly put his hands down S.A.’s pants and groped her vagina. The complaint asserts that Newsome was not assigned to S.A.’s unit at the time, as he was designated to utility and driving duties. Following the incident, S.A. filed a report under the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA).
Institutional Failures at Cambridge Springs
The lawsuit claims that despite multiple reports of Newsome’s inappropriate conduct toward inmates. Some were allegedly witnessed and reported by staff. He remained employed at SCI Cambridge Springs until late 2023. The complaint names several DOC officials, including Secretary of Corrections George Little, Deputy Secretary for the Western Region Michael Zaken, and Superintendent Lisa Graves, alleging that they failed to implement policies and procedures to ensure the safety of inmates.
Criminal Charges Against Newsome
In July 2023, the Pennsylvania State Police investigated allegations against Newsome. As of July 29, 2024, Newsome is facing three counts each of institutional sexual assault, indecent assault with forcible compulsion, and harassment.
Legal Action and Claims
The lawsuit seeks damages, alleging that the defendants violated S.A.’s Eighth and Fourteenth Amendment rights by exhibiting deliberate indifference. Thus increasing the risk of sexual abuse within SCI Cambridge Springs. The complaint asserts that the DOC and its officials failed to provide adequate protection and prevention measures for vulnerable female inmates, thereby allowing the assault to occur.
Andreozzi + Foote dedicates our time to representing survivors of sexual abuse, exploitation, and other forms of institutional misconduct. The firm has successfully held powerful institutions accountable, advocating for justice and systemic change. We encourage you to reach out to us today. 1-866-753-5458
