Maryland Child Victims Act Updates and Recent Developments

February 12, 2024

A group of sixty-three individuals have initiated legal action against the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services, citing instances of mistreatment during their incarceration as minors. The lawsuits have been brought forth by a diverse group of plaintiffs, including twenty women from the now-closed Thomas J.S. Waxter Children’s Center, thirty-seven men from the Charles H. Hickey Jr. School, five men from the Baltimore City Juvenile Justice Center, and twenty-five individuals from the Cheltenham Youth Detention Center.

February 7, 2024

Survivors of clergy sexual misconduct have been given until May 31, 2024, to file their claims against the Archdiocese of Baltimore. This deadline was established through a collaborative agreement in a Baltimore federal court, overseen by Judge Michelle Harner. This date serves as a critical cutoff for initiating potential lawsuits related to abuses within the diocese.

February 4, 2024

The Key School faces additional scrutiny with four new legal challenges under the Maryland Child Victims Act, concerning allegations of sexual misconduct by staff members dating back over fifty years. These recent filings increase the total lawsuits against the institution to at least six.

January 21, 2024

The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Washington presents a legal obstacle to the Child Victims Act, challenging the law on the basis of vested rights and legal distinctions. This dispute underscores the ongoing debate over the legislature’s power to revise laws affecting abuse survivors.

January 10, 2024

The Cheltenham Youth Facility is becoming a focal point for numerous lawsuits alleging child sexual abuse under the new Maryland Child Victims Act. These cases allege systemic failures in protecting the detained youths and aim to secure justice and compensation for the victims.

November 1, 2023

The Archdiocese of Baltimore announces the closure of a church following allegations against Father Paschal Morlino, leading to his removal. This development is part of broader challenges faced by the Maryland Catholic Church, including a surge in abuse lawsuits prompted by legislative changes.

October 18, 2023

Father Paschal Morlino faces suspension and dismissal after a settlement related to sexual harassment allegations comes to light. His departure marks a significant moment for the St. Benedict Church and highlights ongoing investigations into the matter.

October 1, 2023

​The Archdiocese of Baltimore has filed for bankruptcy protection in anticipation of numerous abuse claims enabled by the Maryland Child Victims Act. This strategic legal move aims to manage potential liabilities and establish a settlement trust for claimants.

September 29, 2023

With the enactment of the Maryland Child Victims Act, the Archdiocese of Baltimore prepares for a potential influx of lawsuits by survivors of clergy abuse, a move that may lead to bankruptcy as a protective measure.

September 27, 2023

A less-redacted version of the Maryland Attorney General’s report on sexual abuse within the Baltimore Archdiocese is released, exposing more individuals involved in abuse or its concealment, though some names remain confidential pending appeals.

September 6, 2023

The impending effect of a new Maryland law permitting previously time- barred civil lawsuits for child sex abuse signals a challenging period for the Baltimore Archdiocese, which is considering bankruptcy as a response to the anticipated legal actions.

August 21, 2023

A Baltimore City Circuit Court ruling paves the way for the public release of names of individuals accused of sexual abuse in the Archdiocese of Baltimore, following a comprehensive investigation by the Maryland Attorney General.

August 16, 2023

In a significant legal development, over ninety insurance companies are sued for contesting the Boy Scouts of America’s bankruptcy settlement related to thousands of sexual abuse claims, highlighting a contentious debate over financial responsibility.

May 17, 2023

The Maryland State Boychoir’s director, Frank T. Cimino, resigns after being implicated in a sexual abuse investigation within the Baltimore Catholic Church, marking a pivotal moment in addressing historical allegations of misconduct.