Child sexual abuse is a devastating crime that leaves lifelong scars on survivors and their families. Unfortunately, when institutions fail to take proper precautions, they can become enablers of such abuse. This week, Andreozzi + Foote filed two lawsuits on behalf of survivors against the Ed Waters Track and Field Alliance Club of Baltimore, alleging negligence that allowed a coach to sexually abuse minors.
The Allegations
The lawsuits, filed under Maryland’s Child Victims Act (CVA), detail how Thomas Henderson, a former coach at the club, used his position to victimize two minors—identified in court documents as S.S. and Jane Doe. The abuse occurred during the late 1980s, a period when institutions like youth sports organizations were becoming increasingly aware of the risks posed by sexual predators.
Both lawsuits claim that the Ed Waters Track and Field Alliance Club failed to implement basic safeguards, such as conducting background checks and establishing child protection policies. Instead, the organization allowed Henderson unsupervised access to children, ultimately failing to protect the plaintiffs from harm.
Why This Matters
Youth-serving organizations have a duty to prioritize the safety of the children in their care. When these institutions neglect to enforce safeguards, they expose children to unimaginable risks. The lawsuits emphasize that the abuse could have been prevented if the organization had acted responsibly.
Seeking Justice Through the Child Victims Act
Maryland’s CVA provides survivors of child sexual abuse the opportunity to seek justice, even decades after the abuse occurred. This legislation recognizes the long-lasting impact of trauma and gives survivors a platform to hold their abusers—and the enabling institutions—accountable.
A Message of Support for Survivors
If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual abuse, know that you are not alone. Legal remedies and supportive resources are available to help you on your journey toward healing. At Andreozzi + Foote, we are dedicated to advocating for survivors and ensuring that those responsible for enabling abuse are held accountable.
Please contact our trauma-informed sexual abuse lawyers today 1-(866) 311-8640
