The U.S. Justice Department has launched a civil rights probe into allegations of staff sexual abuse at two California state prisons, as reported on September 4th, 2024. Central California Women’s Facility in Chowchilla and the California Institution for Women in Chino are under scrutiny after numerous inmates reported sexual misconduct by correctional officers.
The investigation aims to determine whether the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) is upholding its constitutional duty to protect inmates from such abuse. United States Attorney Martin Estrada indicated, "Sexual abuse and misconduct will not be tolerated in prisons," emphasizing the importance of the investigation in determining if the state adheres to its constitutional obligations, according to a statement obtained by the Justice Department's website. Moreover, Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke pointed out that, "No woman incarcerated in a jail or prison should be subjected to sexual abuse by prison staff who are constitutionally bound to protect them," reinforcing the stance that all individuals, regardless of their incarceration status, deserve to be treated with human dignity and respect.
The inquiry comes in the wake of several private lawsuits filed by women alleging sexual abuse by staff at the Central California Women’s Facility. A trial concerning these accusations against a former officer is set this week in state court. Additionally, a civil lawsuit representing 21 women at the California Institution for Women cites incidents of forcible rape and other explicit forms of sexual misconduct dating back to 2014.
Reports indicate that the correctional officers implicated span a variety of ranks, including those assigned the responsibility of handling the sexual abuse complaints. A March report delivered by a state-established working group, which included several advocacy and community-based organizations, highlighted the need for a safer, more accessible reporting process and greater staff accountability in handling such allegations.
The Justice Department has not reached any conclusive findings at this point. However, the investigation will proceed under the Civil Rights of Institutionalized Persons Act. This legislation permits the department to look into systemic rights violations within institutional environments. The Civil Rights Division’s Special Litigation Section, along with U.S. Attorney's offices from the Eastern and Central Districts of California, will conduct this investigation. Individuals with information pertinent to this case are encouraged to reach out to the department via the provided contact avenues.
