A lawsuit filed against a nonprofit that provides services to at-risk youth is making serious allegations about sexual abuse involving children.
A 36-page lawsuit was filed against Adelphoi this week in Allegheny County.
It claims that for decades, children at youth treatment centers "suffered sexual abuse at the hands of guards, counselors and other agents."
This lawsuit in particular focuses on eight alleged victims, dating back to 2008. It claims the victims were subjected to everything from "inappropriate strip searches" to "rape using violent force."
The lawsuit says children were regularly offered cigarettes, drugs, candy or alcohol in exchange for sexual favors.
Channel 11 reached out to Adelphoi for a response regarding the lawsuit.
A spokesperson provided us with the following statement:
Adelphoi was recently made aware of a lawsuit reportedly filed by former youth in our care alleging deeply troubling misconduct. We have not yet received or reviewed the complaint and therefore cannot comment on the specific allegations at this time. We take any allegation of abuse, mistreatment or misconduct extremely seriously.
Abuse or mistreatment of any kind is inconsistent with Adelphoi's values, our responsibilities and our commitment to the youth and families we serve.
We will carefully review the allegations when we receive the complaint and respond through the appropriate process. Adelphoi remains committed to maintaining a safe, supportive environment for the young people in our care and to responding appropriately to concerns regarding their safety and well-being.
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