For years, juvenile detention centers in Michigan have been accused of failing to protect young inmates from sexual abuse. Recently, a series of investigations and lawsuits have begun to uncover a systemic problem and evidence that juvenile inmates in Michigan were frequently victimized by staff members at various facilities. Victims of sexual abuse at Michigan juvenile detention centers are now coming forward and filing lawsuits against the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS).
This page will look at sex abuse lawsuits involving Michigan juvenile detention centers and residential treatment facilities, and the settlement value of these cases.
Michigan Detention Center Sex Abuse News and Updates
January 2024 – Houses Fails to Pass New Victims Law
The Justice for Survivors law, which was passed just recently by the Michigan Senate, failed to pass in the Michigan House. There were not enough votes in the lower legislative body in favor of passing the new bill. Despite this recent setback, however, we remain very optimistic that some version of the new law will get passed at some point.
December 2024 – State Senate Passes New Victims Law
The Michigan Senate has passed a new law called the Justice for Survivors law, which is aimed at giving victims of child sexual abuse more access to legal remedies. The new law extends the statute of limitation for civil cases based on child sexual abuse to 10 years after the claim arises, 7 years after the victims “discover” they were harmed, or the victim’s 52nd birthday, whichever is longest. The law also creates a 1-year look-back window to revive old claims that have been time-barred under prior laws.
September 2024 – New Lawsuit Against Wayne Co. Juvenile Detention Center
A former juvenile inmate has filed a lawsuit alleging that he was repeatedly raped by staff members at the Wayne County Juvenile Detention Center. The victim claims that when he was between the ages of 14 and 17, several different staff members at the facility raped him.
July 2024 – Michigan Supreme Court Says Law Not Retroactive
The highest court in Michigan has ruled that a law passed in 2018 extending the limitations deadline for sex abuse lawsuits did NOT have retroactive application. The ruling holds that the 2018 law did not revive civil sexual abuse claims that were previously time-barred under existing laws prior to 2018.
May 2024 – Former Employee Charged with Sexual Assault at Wayne County Juvenile Detention Facility
A former employee of the Wayne County Juvenile Detention Facility was charged with sexually assaulting two teenage boys, aged 16 and 17, within the facility. The assaults allegedly occurred in April 2024. The employee was arraigned on multiple counts of second-degree criminal sexual conduct, highlighting ongoing issues related to staff misconduct in juvenile detention centers
April 2024 – Wolverine Juvenile Center Faces New Lawsuit
The Wolverine Juvenile Center in Saginaw County recently closed down amid various allegations of sexual abuse of inmates committed by staff members. Now many of those former victims are suing the facility and its owner for negligently failing to protect them.
January 2024 – State Investigation Reveals Assault of 12-Year-Old at Wayne County Juvenile Facility
A state investigation into Wayne County’s juvenile detention facility concluded that county employees failed to protect a 12-year-old boy from repeated abuse. The report details multiple assaults on the boy by other juveniles, occurring over several hours, with staff failing to intervene appropriately. As a result, six staff members were terminated following the incident.
History of Abuse at Michigan Juvenile Detention Centers
Juvenile detention centers in Michigan have a long and concerning history of physical and sexual abuse. In recent years, the culture of abuse at Michigan juvenile detention centers has recently been spotlighted by
The State of Michigan has allowed a pervasive culture of physical and sexual abuse to exist at its juvenile facilities for decades. State authorities were aware of the endemic conditions connected to abuse in juvenile detention facilities for many years but did nothing. The abuse was often accompanied by force, compulsion, undue influence, duress, coercion, intimidation, and threats of physical harm or retaliation.
Federal Investigation
In 2010, the U.S. Department of Justice investigated conditions at juvenile detention facilities in Michigan. The DOJ investigation found that rates of sexual abuse and assault reported by child inmates in Michigan juvenile detention facilities were significantly higher than the national average.
The DOJ investigation found major issues and evidence of abuse at two specific Michigan juvenile detention facilities – the Shawono Center in Grayland (where 24% of inmates reported sexual abuse) and the Maxey Training School in Whitmore Lake (27% reported being the victim of sexual abuse). These were some of the highest sexual abuse rates of any youth detention facility in the nation.
Michigan Juvenile Detention Center Facilities
Below are some of the juvenile detention center facilities in Michigan where sexual abuse was widespread. The facilities below include both state facilities and county facilities. The state facilities typically provide longer-term confinement and treatment services. The county juvenile facilities are primarily short-term detainment centers for juveniles awaiting adjudication.
Wolverine Secure Treatment Center – Buena Vista, MI
The Wolverine Secure Treatment Center (WSTC) was a 100-bed, privately operated secure residential facility for male juveniles between the ages of 12 and 21. Opened in 1997, it became Michigan’s first privately run juvenile detention center. Over the years, WSTC developed a troubling record of systemic abuse, with former residents alleging sexual and physical assaults by staff members. In 2021, WSTC’s license was revoked following evidence of widespread mistreatment. In April 2024, a lawsuit was filed in Saginaw County, detailing abuse involving 13 boys and one girl who were assaulted in their rooms, showers, and other areas. The suit accuses operator Wolverine Human Services of gross negligence and failure to protect its residents.
Detroit Behavioral Institute – Detroit, MI
The Detroit Behavioral Institute served as a treatment facility for juveniles facing emotional, behavioral, and mental health challenges. It housed both boys and girls, many of whom were placed there for rehabilitation due to trauma or psychological issues. Allegations of abuse have plagued the facility, with lawsuits citing incidents of sexual misconduct, neglect, and unsafe conditions. Victims claim staff failed to provide appropriate supervision, creating an environment where abuse and mistreatment could occur unchecked.
Harbor Oaks Hospital – New Baltimore, MI
Harbor Oaks Hospital is a psychiatric treatment facility offering inpatient care for juveniles and adults with mental health and addiction issues. For juvenile residents, the facility has faced significant allegations, including sexual abuse by staff members and failures in supervision. Plaintiffs in lawsuits have accused Harbor Oaks of ignoring reports of abuse and creating a dangerous environment for vulnerable youth. Victims describe being sexually assaulted during their stays, leading to ongoing trauma and emotional harm.
Lakeside Academy – Kalamazoo, MI
The Lakeside Academy was a residential treatment center for at-risk youth, focusing on behavioral rehabilitation programs. Known for housing teenage boys with troubled backgrounds, Lakeside Academy gained national attention following the 2020 death of a 16-year-old resident, which exposed severe failures in supervision and safety protocols. Subsequent investigations revealed allegations of physical abuse, sexual misconduct, and neglect by staff. Lawsuits filed against the facility claim administrators repeatedly ignored warning signs and failed to protect juveniles from harm.
Starr Commonwealth – Albion, MI
Starr Commonwealth is a residential treatment facility for juveniles aimed at providing rehabilitation for behavioral and emotional issues. Despite its mission, Starr has faced lawsuits alleging sexual abuse and neglect of minors. Plaintiffs describe a pervasive culture where staff members exploited vulnerable residents, and leadership failed to act on credible abuse reports. The lawsuits highlight systemic failures in oversight and accountability, leading to life-altering harm for many victims.
Shawono Center – Grayling, MI
The Shawono Center is a state-run juvenile detention facility that accommodates up to 40 male residents between the ages of 12 and 21. The center primarily houses juveniles convicted of felony offenses and offers specialized treatment programs, including addiction and sexual offender rehabilitation. Despite its state oversight, Shawono has been the subject of abuse allegations, with victims reporting incidents of sexual assault and inadequate supervision.
Bay Pines Center – Escanaba, MI
The Bay Pines Center is a state-operated juvenile detention and treatment facility in Escanaba. Designed to house both male and female juveniles, it accommodates offenders awaiting adjudication or serving short-term sentences. Bay Pines emphasizes “intensive treatment” programs, focusing heavily on group therapy sessions rather than traditional long-term detention. However, lawsuits have surfaced, alleging instances of sexual abuse and staff misconduct, with claims that administrators failed to prevent or address incidents of harm.
W.J. Maxey Training School – Whitmore Lake, MI
The W.J. Maxey Boys Training School (Maxey School) was one of Michigan’s largest juvenile detention facilities, with the capacity to house up to 60 male residents. The center housed juveniles convicted of serious offenses and aimed to provide rehabilitation. However, Maxey developed a notorious reputation for systemic mistreatment, including physical and sexual abuse. A 2024 DOJ report highlighted civil rights violations at the facility, detailing repeated assaults and failures in staff accountability. The facility was ultimately closed in 2015 due to budget cuts, but its legacy remains a focal point of abuse litigation in Michigan.
Forest View Hospital – Grand Rapids, MI
Forest View Hospital is a psychiatric treatment center offering mental health care for both juveniles and adults. While providing services for vulnerable youth, the facility has faced allegations of sexual misconduct and abuse by staff. Victims claim Forest View failed to implement proper oversight or safeguard its residents, leading to incidents of harm that have triggered lawsuits and calls for accountability.
Cedar Creek Hospital – St. Johns, MI
The Cedar Creek Hospital is a psychiatric treatment facility that serves juveniles with acute mental health needs. Allegations against the facility include sexual abuse, unsafe conditions, and staff misconduct. Lawsuits filed on behalf of victims claim Cedar Creek administrators failed to protect residents from harm, neglected supervision responsibilities and ignored warning signs of predatory behavior among staff.
Maurice Spear Campus – Adrian, MI
Maurice Spear Campus is a juvenile facility operated by Lenawee County. It has a maximum capacity of 66 detainees. Maurice Spear has faced allegation that juvenile inmates at the facility were sexually assaulted by a pastor at the facility.
Wayne County Juvenile Detention Facility – Ann Arbor, MI
The Wayne County Juvenile Detention Facility has faced repeated allegations of staff misconduct, including sexual abuse and neglect. Incidents include staff failing to protect a 12-year-old boy from repeated assaults and a former employee charged with sexually assaulting teenage boys. Additional lawsuits have alleged staff members repeatedly raped a former juvenile inmate over several years. Allegations of mismanagement and a lack of clear safety protocols further exacerbate the situation. At one point recently, 62% of positions for detention specialists were vacant. This juvenile hall has both understaffing and overcrowding, chaos that can breed physical and sexual abuse. Possible defendants include Wayne County.
Muskegon County Juvenile Transition Center – Muskegon, MI
Muskegon County Juvenile Transition Center is a short-term juvenile detention facility operated by Muskegon County. This is a relatively small facility. Staff at the facility have previously been accused of using improper restraint methods on detainees and it is chronically understaffed.
Kalamazoo County Juvenile Home – Kalamazoo, MI
Kalamazoo County Juvenile Home is the only juvenile detention center in Kalamazoo County. This facility has the capacity for up to 40 juvenile inmates. Like other county facilities, it is a short-term detention center. Kalamazoo County Juvenile Home has suffered from significant staffing shortages in the past.
Roscommon County Juvenile Detention Center – Roscommon, MI
The Roscommon County Juvenile Detention Center was the primary juvenile detention center for Roscommon County. The facility was closed in 2022 due to funding and staff shortages. Allegations of improper practices and negligence have surfaced regarding its operations before closure. Possible defendants include Roscommon County.
Allegan County Juvenile Detention – Allegan, MI
The Allegan County Juvenile Detention facility is operated by Allegan County and can hold up to 22 juvenile inmates. It provides secure custody for juveniles awaiting court disposition. Allegations include unsafe conditions and inadequate supervision. Possible defendants include Allegan County.
Bay County Juvenile Home – Essexville, MI
The Bay County Juvenile Home is a 29-bed facility for juveniles aged 10 to 17. Allegations include a failure to provide a safe environment and protect youth from harm while in custody. Possible defendants include Bay County.
Berrien County Juvenile Center – Berrien Center, MI
The Berrien County Juvenile Center has a total capacity of 43 beds divided among Secure Detention, Alternative Detention, and Residential Treatment programs. Allegations include neglect, unsafe conditions, and systemic issues with staff accountability. Possible defendants include Berrien County, which operates the center through its Family Division of the Trial Court.
Calhoun County Juvenile Home – Marshall, MI
The Calhoun County Juvenile Home, now rebranded as the Calhoun County Youth Center, has a capacity of 52 beds for youth aged 11 to 17. Allegations against the facility include inadequate supervision and failure to protect residents from harm. Possible defendants include Calhoun County.
Eaton County Youth Facility – Charlotte, MI
The Eaton County Youth Facility operates an 8-bed coed juvenile detention unit for court-ordered juveniles. Allegations include improper practices and lack of adequate staffing to ensure the safety of detained youth. Possible defendants include Eaton County.
Genesee Valley Regional Center – Flint, MI
The Genesee Valley Regional Center is a 59-bed pretrial holding facility for juveniles. Allegations include unsafe conditions, neglect, and improper treatment of detained youth. Possible defendants include Genesee County.
Ingham County Youth Center – Lansing, MI
This is one of the smaller facilities, with only 24 beds. Allegations include a failure to maintain a safe environment and address incidents of harm to youth. Possible defendants include Ingham County.
Jackson County Youth Center – Jackson, MI
Jackson County’s juvenile detention center, which can host 50 inmates at a time for detention and treatment. Allegations include neglect, inadequate supervision, and failure to provide a secure environment for residents. Possible defendants include Jackson County.
Kent County Juvenile Detention – Grand Rapids, MI
The Kent County Juvenile Detention facility, with a capacity of 98 beds, provides temporary care for youth whose offenses pose a risk to public safety. Allegations include systemic neglect and unsafe conditions for detained youth. Possible defendants include Kent County.
Macomb County Juvenile Justice Center – Mt Clemens, MI
The Macomb County Juvenile Justice Center is a 140-bed facility providing both short-term detention and long-term treatment services for youth aged 10 to 17. Allegations include unsafe conditions and staff misconduct. Possible defendants include Macomb County.
Midland County Juvenile Care Center – Midland, MI
The Midland County Juvenile Care Center is a 20-bed facility providing secure detention for juveniles pending court action. Allegations include neglect and failure to provide adequate supervision. Possible defendants include Midland County.
Monroe County Youth Center – Monroe, MI
The Monroe County Youth Center has a total capacity of 36 beds divided between residential treatment and secure detention. Allegations include systemic failures in staff accountability and unsafe conditions for residents. Possible defendants include Monroe County.
Oakland County Children’s Village – Waterford Twp, MI
The Oakland County Children’s Village provides both secure detention and treatment services for juveniles. Allegations include neglect, staff misconduct, and inadequate protections for youth. Possible defendants include Oakland County.
Ottawa County Juvenile Detention – West Olive, MI
The Ottawa County Juvenile Detention Center provides secure detention for 40 juveniles aged 9 to 17. Allegations include neglect and failure to ensure the safety of detained youth. Possible defendants include Ottawa County.
Saginaw County Juvenile Detention – Saginaw, MI
The Saginaw County Juvenile Detention facility has faced allegations of unsafe conditions and inadequate supervision of detained youth. Possible defendants include Saginaw County.
Washtenaw County Youth Center – Ann Arbor, MI
The Washtenaw County Youth Center provides secure detention for juveniles accused or adjudicated for crimes. Allegations include neglect and systemic failures to protect residents from harm. Possible defendants include Washtenaw County.
Michigan Juvenile Detention Sex Abuse Lawsuit Settlement Amounts
Many lawsuits in these cases seek $2 million or more in damages due to the profound and lasting impact of the abuse, the egregiousness of the institutions’ failures, and the comprehensive costs associated with the victim’s recovery and ongoing needs.
Calculating settlement amounts in juvenile detention center sex abuse lawsuits in Michigan involves several factors, including the severity of the abuse, the impact on the victim, and the institution’s level of negligence. Key elements considered in these expected per-person settlement payout calculations include:
- Severity and Duration of Abuse: The nature and extent of the sexual abuse, including its duration and the physical and psychological harm inflicted on the victim, significantly influence the settlement amount. The elements are important, but they are just one element in calculating detention center sex abuse settlement amounts. Even one instance of abuse can have a lasting impact on a person and can lead to a significant payout from the defendants (or a jury).
- Impact on the Victim: This encompasses immediate and long-term effects on the victim’s mental health, daily functioning, and future prospects. Our detention center sex abuse lawyers often work with psychologists and other experts to provide evidence of the victim’s trauma and its lasting impact.
- Institutional Negligence: The degree of negligence or misconduct by the institution can drive up settlement amounts. The more a jury is likely to be angered by the institution’s failure to prevent abuse, inadequate supervision, and ignored reports of abuse, the higher the settlement is likely to be. Some of these institutions did not do what they should do; others turned a blind eye, and those should pay more. Institutions with clear evidence of systemic failure typically face higher settlement amounts.
- Economic Damages: Although most cases our detention center sex abuse lawyers handle do not include significant economic damages, there are instances where economic losses are claimed. These cover the costs of medical treatment, psychological counseling, and other economic impacts suffered by the victim. There are also sex abuse lawsuits where the victim can make a strong case for past and future economic damages that flow from the emotional injuries.
- Non-Economic Damages: These include pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and other non-economic harms. These subjective damages often comprise significant portions of the settlement, as juries deliver compensation awards in this category.
- Punitive Damages: In cases of gross negligence or intentional misconduct, courts may award punitive damages to punish the institution and deter future misconduct. The risk of punitive damages can drive up settlement amounts in these cases.
There is a history in Michigan of offering fair settlement compensation to in child sex abuse lawsuits in a similar context. In January 2020, the Michigan Department of Corrections agreed to an $80 million settlement to resolve a class action lawsuit filed by former youth inmates. These inmates, who were housed in adult facilities, not detention centers, endured sexual abuse and other harms, including abuse by staff. The lawsuit covered incidents involving 12 youth inmates between October 2010 and February 2020.
How Juvenile Detention Center Sex Abuse Lawsuits Work
Suing only the perpetrators often leads to a dead end, as they usually lack the financial resources to compensate victims adequately. However, the broader issue lies in addressing the institutional, systemic failures that allowed the abuse. Institutional defendants, such as state agencies, are better positioned to provide compensation and implement necessary changes to prevent future abuse. This approach ensures victims are compensated and helps prevent future incidents.
The claims against juvenile detention centers start with the duty of care owed to these children. The state has a legal obligation to safeguard minors, ensuring their basic needs are met and protecting them from sexual assault by other children and the staff responsible for their care. The state breached these duties, leading to widespread physical and sexual abuse within juvenile detention facilities. These children, despite their past issues, are vulnerable and must be protected from physical and psychological harm.
The state clearly failed in this responsibility. Despite prior reports of abuse, the State of Michigan and its employees did not take adequate measures to prevent further harm. This negligence included failing to supervise staff properly, implement sufficient policies, train employees adequately, and ensure effective safety procedures. Additionally, these juvenile detention center lawsuits highlight a systemic issue of inadequate responses to reports of abuse, resulting in continued victimization.
Due to this negligence, these children have suffered significant physical, emotional, and psychological harm, including pain, distress, loss of self-esteem, and other long-term effects of abuse. Michigan detention center sex abuse lawsuits seek compensation for these damages and aim to hold the State of Michigan accountable for its failure to protect vulnerable minors in its juvenile detention facilities.
Contact Our Michigan Juvenile Detention Center Sex Abuse Lawyers
Our Michigan juvenile detention center sex abuse lawyers represent victims in sex abuse lawsuits. Call us at 800-553-8082 or contact us online for a free case evaluation.