Federal Government to Pay $116 Million to Women Sexually Abused at Dublin Prison
The federal government has agreed to pay $116 million to more than 100 women who alleged they were sexually abused by employees at the now-shuttered Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) in Dublin, California. The settlement marks the largest ever paid by the federal government for misconduct in federal prisons.
Background
The FCI Dublin was dubbed the “rape club” due to the widespread sexual abuse of inmates by employees. An FBI investigation was launched in 2021, resulting in the arrests of eight employees. Five have pleaded guilty, and two have been convicted, including former Warden Ray Garcia.
Settlement Details
The women will receive an average of about $1.1 million each to settle litigation against the Bureau of Prisons. The settlement is the largest ever paid by the federal government for misconduct in federal prisons. The women were subjected to sexual abuse, including groping, sexual contact, and being forced to pose naked for photos.
Reactions
Attorney Jessica Pride, who represented many of the women, said the settlement sends a message that sexual abuse of incarcerated individuals will not be tolerated. “There are now $116 million worth of reasons for the Bureau of Prisons to care about those behind bars,” she said.
Next Steps
Pride also stated that 29 correctional officers who worked at the prison are still on leave and that she expects further criminal charges to be filed. The settlement likely covers only about half the potential cases, as many new claims are still being processed.
Class-Action Suit
A separate class-action suit was resolved last week, with the Bureau of Prisons agreeing to subject facilities to a court-appointed monitor while publicly acknowledging that sexual abuse was pervasive and retaliation was common. The women housed at FCI Dublin were transferred to other facilities.
Conclusion
The settlement is a crucial step in holding the Bureau of Prisons accountable for its systematic failure to protect women in its custody. It is a reminder that sexual abuse is a serious issue that must be addressed in all settings, including prisons.
FAQs
Q: How much will the women receive in the settlement?
A: The women will receive an average of about $1.1 million each.
Q: How many employees were charged with sexual abuse?
A: Eight employees were charged with sexual abuse.
Q: How many employees have pleaded guilty?
A: Five employees have pleaded guilty.
Q: How many employees have been convicted?
A: Two employees have been convicted, including former Warden Ray Garcia.
Q: What is the total amount of the settlement?
A: The total amount of the settlement is $116 million.
Q: How many women are included in the settlement?
A: More than 100 women are included in the settlement.
Q: What is the significance of this settlement?
A: The settlement is the largest ever paid by the federal government for misconduct in federal prisons and sends a message that sexual abuse of incarcerated individuals will not be tolerated.
