Sex Abuse Litigation

Who knew, who was sued, and what happened next.

An index of news reporting on sexual abuse allegations, lawsuits, investigations and outcomes involving companies, schools, governments and religious organizations. Latest entry Oct 20, 2026.

October 2026

  1. Loyola University Chicago students protest as Title IX mishandling lawsuit heads toward 2027 trial

    Students rallied on campus over a lawsuit by ten former students alleging the university mishandled and underreported sexual assault complaints dating back to 2011. The university has failed to get the case dismissed, and a trial is set for September 2027; Loyola declined to comment on pending litigation.

    Lawsuit filed Loyola University ChicagoUnited States, IllinoisReported by NBC Chicago

  2. Former student sues Evergreen Public Schools, alleging district failed to stop band teacher's abuse

    A former Mountain View High School student filed suit in Clark County Superior Court alleging the district failed to protect her from years of grooming and sexual abuse by a band teacher in the early 2000s. The claims are allegations and have not been tested in court.

    Lawsuit filed Evergreen Public Schools (Mountain View High School)United States, WashingtonReported by The Columbian

  3. Englewood school district sued over alleged abuse by after-school program aide

    A new lawsuit against the Englewood school board, the city and an elementary school alleges officials knew or should have known about the conduct of a former after-school program aide who was arrested in 2023 on multiple sexual assault charges. The suit claims negligence and failure to supervise; the district had not commented.

    Lawsuit filed Englewood Public School DistrictUnited States, New JerseyReported by Daily Voice

  4. Lyft asks federal judge to narrow consolidated passenger sexual assault lawsuits

    At a hearing in San Francisco, Lyft argued that negligence and product liability claims in roughly 136 consolidated federal suits by riders alleging assault by drivers should be dismissed. The judge voiced skepticism of some of Lyft's arguments but did not rule from the bench.

    Lawsuit filed LyftUnited States, CaliforniaReported by Courthouse News Service

  5. Cornell president acknowledges he never followed up on 2024 fraternity gang-rape report

    Cornell's president said he did not check the outcome of a student's 2024 report of a fraternity gang rape, as a lawsuit alleges the university mishandled her complaints and the faculty senate weighs a no-confidence resolution. New York's governor named the state attorney general special prosecutor and ordered an independent review of Cornell's handling of the case.

    Investigation Cornell UniversityUnited States, New YorkReported by PBS NewsHour (Associated Press)

  6. Federal judge rejects Oakland Diocese bankruptcy plan covering about 330 abuse claims

    A federal bankruptcy judge declined to confirm the Oakland Diocese's Chapter 11 plan meant to resolve roughly 330 clergy abuse claims, citing insufficient evidentiary support. The judge indicated a revised plan could still be approved.

    Settlement Roman Catholic Diocese of OaklandUnited States, CaliforniaReported by The Oaklandside (via The Business Journal)

  7. Former Menlo-Atherton student sues Sequoia Union High School District over alleged teacher abuse

    A former student filed suit in San Mateo County alleging a former teacher sexually abused her between 2006 and 2010 and that the district failed to supervise, investigate, warn students or report the teacher to police. The district did not respond to requests for comment.

    Lawsuit filed Sequoia Union High School District (Menlo-Atherton High School)United States, CaliforniaReported by Hoodline

  8. Uber settles third bellwether passenger assault case in Texas just before opening statements

    Uber reached a confidential settlement with a Texas rider shortly after jury selection in the third bellwether trial of the federal passenger sexual assault litigation. Thousands of similar cases remain pending in the multidistrict litigation in California.

    Settlement Uber TechnologiesUnited States, TexasReported by Top Class Actions

  9. Education Department opens probes into NYC schools and Jeffco over staff sexual misconduct handling

    The U.S. Education Department's Office for Civil Rights launched investigations into how the New York City school system, Colorado's Jeffco Public Schools and unnamed districts in six other states handle sexual misconduct claims against employees, targeting so-called pass-the-trash practices. New York City schools said they take abuse allegations seriously and are reviewing the complaint.

    Investigation New York City Department of EducationUnited States, New York and ColoradoReported by Chalkbeat

  10. Second former student joins Child Victims Act suit against Montgomery County school board

    An amended complaint adds a second former elementary student to a lawsuit alleging the school board negligently kept a teacher in roles with access to children despite complaints dating to 1993 and a 1995 child protective services finding. The suit relies on Maryland's Child Victims Act; the allegations are unproven.

    Lawsuit filed Montgomery County Public SchoolsUnited States, MarylandReported by Hoodline

September 2026

  1. Massachusetts AG report finds hundreds of clergy abused nearly 1,000 children in three dioceses

    The Massachusetts attorney general released the state's first investigation into clergy abuse in three Catholic dioceses, finding that more than 270 clergy abused close to 1,000 children going back to the 1950s. The report notes Worcester remains the only diocese in the state without a public list of credibly accused priests.

    Investigation Dioceses of Worcester, Springfield and Fall RiverUnited States, MassachusettsReported by WBUR

  2. Jury awards $164 million against College Park hotel operator in child sex trafficking case

    A federal jury in Atlanta found the operator of a College Park Super 8 liable under federal trafficking law, concluding it knew or should have known of trafficking at the property and profited from it. The verdict totaled $164 million.

    Verdict Lincoln Bancorp LLC (Super 8, College Park)United States, GeorgiaReported by Atlanta News First

  3. Family sues Savannah nursing home alleging cover-up of resident sexual assault

    A lawsuit in Chatham County alleges a Savannah nursing facility failed to protect a nonverbal resident from sexual assault by another resident with a known history of misconduct and delayed informing her family. The facility had not responded to the allegations.

    Lawsuit filed Riverview Health and RehabilitationUnited States, GeorgiaReported by WTOC

  4. Former federal prison worker sentenced for sexual contact with inmates at FCI Thomson

    Danny L. Spyker, a former corrections officer and cook supervisor convicted by a federal jury of sexual contact with inmates, was sentenced to three years and five months in prison. Prosecutors said he abused his position of authority over people in custody.

    Conviction Federal Bureau of PrisonsUnited States, IllinoisReported by Chicago Sun-Times

  5. Lawsuit alleges former Burnet County jail officer sexually abused a detainee

    A former detainee filed a federal lawsuit against Burnet County and former detention officer Michael Jason Wilson alleging he sexually abused her in custody in 2024. The article notes Wilson was previously convicted on felony counts involving abuse of a different detainee; the new claims are allegations.

    Lawsuit filed Burnet County JailUnited States, TexasReported by CBS Austin

  6. Lawsuit alleges Genesis Health Clubs trainer groomed and abused a teenage member

    A former member alleges in a Jackson County, Missouri, lawsuit that a personal trainer at a Kansas City Genesis gym sexually abused her when she was a minor in 2021. The suit accuses the chain of negligent hiring, supervision and training.

    Lawsuit filed Genesis Health ClubsUnited States, MissouriReported by Johnson County Post

  7. Former Cal softball player sues UC Regents, alleging coach pursued coercive sexual relationship

    A former pitcher sued the University of California Regents and a former head softball coach, alleging a coercive sexual relationship and that the university was negligent in hiring, training and supervising staff who allegedly knew and did not intervene. The coach's tenure ended in 2025 shortly after the university received a report about the relationship.

    Lawsuit filed University of California, BerkeleyUnited States, CaliforniaReported by Athletic Business

  8. Florida court enters judgment against prison health contractor over gynecologist abuse claims

    A federal court entered a $100,000 judgment in a civil case brought by five women prisoners alleging sexual abuse by a contracted gynecologist at Lowell Correctional Institution. The suit also alleged the state prison health contractor tolerated the conduct despite complaints; the doctor denies the allegations.

    Verdict Lowell Correctional Institution (Florida)United States, FloridaReported by Prison Legal News

August 2026

  1. Appeals court orders new trial after $10 million verdict against Carnival in shipboard assault suit

    The 11th Circuit vacated parts of a $10.3 million Miami jury award to a passenger who alleged a crew member sexually assaulted her aboard a Carnival ship in 2018. The court ruled the jury should have been allowed to hear evidence from an FBI report and ordered a new trial.

    Verdict Carnival Cruise LineUnited States, FloridaReported by Insurance Journal

  2. Ireland's schools abuse commission invites survivors to share experiences in national survey

    The state Commission of Investigation into historical sexual abuse in Irish schools is launching a survey of people abused in schools between 1927 and 2013 to identify patterns and guide its inquiry. A 2024 scoping inquiry had identified more than 2,300 allegations at 308 religious-run schools, and a redress scheme is expected to follow.

    Investigation Religious-run and other Irish schools (Commission of Investigation)IrelandReported by The Irish Times

  3. Former child actor sues Disney alleging company failed to protect her from on-set abuse

    A negligence lawsuit filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court alleges a Disney employee sexually abused a minor actor during a 2001 Disney Channel production and that the company failed to protect her or investigate. Disney could not be reached for comment.

    Lawsuit filed The Walt Disney CompanyUnited States, CaliforniaReported by TheGrio

  4. Judge rules ex-Abercrombie & Fitch CEO Mike Jeffries competent to stand trial on sex trafficking charges

    A federal judge in Brooklyn found former Abercrombie & Fitch CEO Mike Jeffries mentally fit for trial on sex trafficking and interstate prostitution charges, reversing a 2025 finding. Jeffries is accused of exploiting male models while leading the company; jury selection was set for late October 2026.

    Criminal charges Abercrombie & FitchUnited States, New YorkReported by amNY

  5. Pentagon report shows estimated military sexual assaults fell for third straight year

    The Pentagon's fiscal 2025 report estimated about 20,500 active-duty members experienced sexual assault, down from earlier surveys, while formal reports rose to nearly 8,000. Advocacy groups questioned whether the decline reflects actual conditions.

    Policy change U.S. Department of DefenseUnited StatesReported by Military Times

  6. Phillips Academy alumni report abuse by school's former medical director

    Two alumni reported they were sexually abused as students by the boarding school's former medical director, who served from 1992 to 2011 and was later convicted on federal child pornography charges. School leaders invited others to come forward and said they are working with an outside nonprofit on a survivor-centered policy review.

    Allegation Phillips Academy AndoverUnited States, MassachusettsReported by The Eagle-Tribune (via BishopAccountability.org)

  7. Pornhub owner Aylo agrees to pay $120 million to settle child sexual abuse material class actions

    Aylo agreed to a $120 million settlement, pending court approval, of two U.S. class actions alleging that videos of minors were uploaded to Pornhub without consent. The company denies the allegations but agreed to identity verification, moderation measures and outside audits.

    Settlement Aylo (formerly MindGeek)United States, California; CanadaReported by CP24 / CTV News

  8. Texas and Roblox clash over discovery in state child-safety lawsuit

    Texas's attorney general, who accuses Roblox of marketing itself as safe while failing to protect children from predators, says the company has been slow to turn over documents. Roblox calls the requests overbroad; a tentative trial date is set for 2028.

    Lawsuit filed RobloxUnited States, TexasReported by Texas Standard

  9. Raleigh rider files $50 million lawsuit against Lyft over alleged assault by driver

    A North Carolina rider sued Lyft in Durham County alleging a driver sexually assaulted her during a ride in March 2026; the driver has been criminally charged and indicted. Lyft said it does not comment on pending litigation.

    Lawsuit filed LyftUnited States, North CarolinaReported by ABC11 (WTVD)

  10. Louisiana family sues Roblox and Discord alleging platforms enabled sexual exploitation of a teen

    A lawsuit filed in Northern California alleges an adult groomed a Louisiana minor on Roblox and moved the contact to Discord, where exploitation followed. The suit claims both companies misled parents about child safety on their platforms.

    Lawsuit filed RobloxUnited States, Louisiana; CaliforniaReported by WLOX

  11. Ex-Kentucky swim coach settles abuse suit; claims against University of Kentucky head to 2027 trial

    A former University of Kentucky head swim coach, previously banned for life by the U.S. Center for SafeSport, settled claims brought by two former swimmers alleging sexual assault and a hostile environment. The lawsuit's claims against the university and its former athletic director remain active, with trial set for May 2027; both deny wrongdoing.

    Settlement University of KentuckyUnited States, KentuckyReported by WUKY

  12. Interlochen-commissioned report details decades of abuse allegations against nearly 50 adults

    An outside investigation commissioned by the Michigan arts boarding school documented about 70 allegations of sexual abuse by nearly 50 affiliated adults from the 1950s to the 2010s, including Jeffrey Epstein, and cited gaps in oversight and a permissive environment. The school apologized, referred names to law enforcement and created a counseling fund, though some alumni say the response falls short.

    Investigation Interlochen Center for the ArtsUnited States, MichiganReported by OPB (NPR)

  13. New Mexico judge orders Meta to pay $567 million and tighten protections for minors

    A Santa Fe judge found Meta created a public nuisance and ordered $567 million for a teen mental health fund plus a five-year decree including tighter limits on adult contact with minors and enhanced review of child sexual abuse reports. Meta said it will appeal.

    Verdict Meta PlatformsUnited States, New MexicoReported by TimesLIVE (Reuters)

  14. Jury orders Harrisville Central School District to pay $3.5M over 1980s teacher abuse

    A state Supreme Court jury ordered the Lewis County district to pay $3.5 million to a former student who alleged a teacher abused him in the early 1980s and that the district took no action after his parents reported it to the principal. The teacher died in 2018, and it is unclear whether the district will appeal.

    Verdict Harrisville Central School DistrictUnited States, New YorkReported by WWNY 7 News (via BishopAccountability.org)

  15. B.C. court approves $30M class-action settlement over abuse at two Vancouver Catholic schools

    The B.C. Supreme Court approved a $30-million settlement of a class action by more than 200 former students alleging historical sexual, physical and psychological abuse at the two schools, including by Christian Brothers transferred from Newfoundland's Mount Cashel orphanage. The deal sets up a confidential claims process instead of a trial.

    Settlement Vancouver College and St. Thomas More CollegiateCanada, British ColumbiaReported by CP24 (The Canadian Press)

  16. Court approves $3M attorney fee deal in FCI Dublin sexual abuse class action

    A federal court approved a $3 million settlement covering attorneys' fees in the class action over staff sexual abuse of women at the now-closed FCI Dublin. Related litigation has produced roughly $130 million in payouts to more than 130 former prisoners.

    Settlement Federal Bureau of PrisonsUnited States, CaliforniaReported by Prison Legal News

July 2026

  1. Nine more former detainees allege sexual abuse at Clark County juvenile detention center

    Nine adults filed notices of intent to sue Clark County, alleging county employees sexually abused them as youths held at the juvenile center between 1990 and 2014. The claims bring the total number of claimants against the county to 17.

    Allegation Clark County Juvenile Justice CenterUnited States, WashingtonReported by KOMO News

  2. Snohomish and Pierce counties ask court to make Washington state liable for juvenile abuse claims

    Prosecutors for two Washington counties asked a judge to designate the state as the proper defendant in sexual abuse claims tied to county juvenile detention centers, arguing state-appointed judges controlled staffing. The counties estimate potential exposure in the hundreds of millions of dollars.

    Lawsuit filed State of WashingtonUnited States, WashingtonReported by Hoodline

  3. Weill Cornell Medicine reaches compliance deal ending federal probe tied to convicted urologist

    Weill Cornell agreed to fund a $30 million patient-safety institute and strengthen abuse prevention to resolve a federal criminal investigation over its handling of former urologist Darius Paduch, who was sentenced to life for abusing patients. The institution previously agreed to pay more than $1 billion to settle civil claims.

    Settlement Weill Cornell MedicineUnited States, New YorkReported by The Boston Globe (AP)

  4. Former WWE employee's suit against Vince McMahon and WWE moves to private arbitration

    A former WWE employee who accused ex-chairman Vince McMahon of sex trafficking and abuse agreed with McMahon and WWE to resolve her federal lawsuit in private arbitration, with the court case to be dismissed. McMahon has denied the allegations.

    Lawsuit filed WWEUnited States, ConnecticutReported by Wrestling Inc.

  5. Eight more former detainees sue San Diego County over alleged abuse in juvenile facilities

    Eight anonymous plaintiffs filed a federal lawsuit alleging guards sexually abused them while they were held in San Diego County juvenile facilities. The case adds to similar claims from hundreds of former residents.

    Lawsuit filed San Diego County Probation / juvenile detention facilitiesUnited States, CaliforniaReported by Corrections1

  6. Southwest Airlines sued over alleged in-flight sexual assault by intoxicated passenger

    A passenger alleges Southwest allowed an intoxicated man to board a Seattle-to-Sacramento flight and served him more alcohol before he assaulted her; the man pleaded guilty in federal court to simple assault. The negligence suit claims the airline failed to train staff and follow its own policies.

    Lawsuit filed Southwest AirlinesUnited States, WashingtonReported by MyNorthwest (KIRO Newsradio)

  7. Education Secretary issues teacher sexual misconduct guidance, opens probes into 20 districts

    Following reporting that California failed to revoke credentials of dozens of educators found to have committed sexual misconduct, the U.S. Education Department issued guidance threatening funding for schools that fail to protect students and opened investigations into 20 districts' handling of staff misconduct. It also opened an inquiry into LAUSD's reassignment policy for accused employees.

    Policy change U.S. K-12 districts (including Tulare City and Wilsona, CA; LAUSD)United StatesReported by LAist (ProPublica/KQED)

  8. Former detainees file new suit alleging sexual abuse at Snohomish County's Denney juvenile center

    Nine former detainees filed a negligence lawsuit alleging staff sexually abused them at the Denney juvenile facilities between the 1980s and 2012. The county said it is reviewing the complaint.

    Lawsuit filed Snohomish County, Denney Juvenile Justice CenterUnited States, WashingtonReported by The Daily Herald (Everett)

  9. Lawsuit accuses Gillespie County of failing to supervise deputy accused of on-duty sexual assault

    A woman filed a civil suit alleging a former sheriff's deputy sexually assaulted and harassed her while on duty in 2025, and that the county failed to properly screen and supervise him. The former deputy faces separate pending criminal charges unrelated to sexual assault; the civil claims are allegations.

    Lawsuit filed Gillespie County Sheriff's OfficeUnited States, TexasReported by Hoodline

  10. Cook County jury awards $50 million against Peoria climbing camp over assault of young camper

    A Cook County jury found the operators of a Peoria children's climbing camp negligent in supervision after a camper was sexually assaulted by another camper in 2022. The award totaled $50 million, including punitive damages.

    Verdict First Ascent Climbing and Fitness CampUnited States, IllinoisReported by WCBU Peoria Public Radio

June 2026

  1. San Francisco Archdiocese reaches $395 million deal with abuse survivors in bankruptcy

    The Archdiocese of San Francisco agreed to pay $395 million to resolve about 530 childhood clergy abuse claims as part of its Chapter 11 case. The deal requires claimant and bankruptcy court approval and includes non-monetary child-protection commitments.

    Settlement Roman Catholic Archdiocese of San FranciscoUnited States, CaliforniaReported by The New York Times (via GV Wire)

  2. Michigan AG report reviews abuse allegations against 38 clergy in Diocese of Saginaw

    Michigan's attorney general released a report of more than 250 pages on sexual misconduct allegations involving 37 priests and a deacon in the Diocese of Saginaw, the sixth in a series of statewide reports. No criminal charges resulted, as most incidents predated 2002.

    Investigation Diocese of SaginawUnited States, MichiganReported by CP24 (CNN)

  3. New Hampshire YDC abuse fund gets $20 million as new administrator aims to clear 1,700 claims

    Lawmakers allocated $20 million, well below the requested $55 million, to pay claims from people abused at the state's former youth detention center. The fund's new administrator plans to resolve about 1,700 pending claims within three years.

    Settlement State of New Hampshire, Youth Development Center settlement fundUnited States, New HampshireReported by New Hampshire Public Radio

  4. UK national grooming gangs inquiry names first areas for investigation

    The national statutory inquiry into child sexual exploitation by grooming gangs named London, Bradford, Keighley and Oldham as its first local investigation areas. It will examine how police, councils, health and social services responded.

    Investigation UK National Inquiry into Grooming GangsUnited KingdomReported by ITV News

  5. Rhode Island opens two-year window for revived child sexual abuse lawsuits

    Governor Dan McKee signed legislation changing the statute of limitations for child sexual abuse claims and creating a window through June 2028 for previously time-barred suits against institutions. The law followed a state attorney general report on the Diocese of Providence.

    Legislation State of Rhode IslandUnited States, Rhode IslandReported by Insurance Journal

  6. Records show South Jersey district paid $3.1M to settle teacher abuse suits

    Previously undisclosed settlements released after a public records case show the district and its insurers paid at least $3.125 million over lawsuits alleging a former teacher, who later pleaded guilty, abused boys over more than a decade. Deposition testimony indicated officials had raised boundary concerns years before his arrest, and two suits remain pending.

    Settlement Lawrence Township School District (Cumberland County)United States, New JerseyReported by The Jersey Vindicator

  7. Ohio State trustees approve about $100M settlement with former athletes over team doctor abuse

    Ohio State's board approved a preliminary settlement of roughly $100 million covering nearly all of the 280 remaining claimants who said a late university doctor abused them, adding to more than $61 million paid earlier. An independent report previously found university staff knew of complaints as early as 1979 but failed to act.

    Settlement Ohio State UniversityUnited States, OhioReported by Associated Press (ClickOnDetroit)

May 2026

  1. Complaint filed over alleged sexual abuse of children in Western Australia youth detention

    Lawyers lodged a complaint with the Australian Human Rights Commission on behalf of about 100 people alleging sexual abuse in WA's youth detention system, including by custodial staff. A class action may follow if conciliation fails.

    Allegation Government of Western AustraliaAustralia, Western AustraliaReported by National Indigenous Times

  2. Harrods redress scheme has fully compensated more than 75 Al Fayed abuse survivors

    Harrods' compensation scheme for people abused by former owner Mohamed Al Fayed reports 259 survivors in the process, with more than 75 fully compensated and nearly 200 claims pending. Police and the IOPC continue separate inquiries into enablers and past police handling.

    Settlement HarrodsUnited KingdomReported by Malay Mail (AFP)

April 2026

  1. Calgary judge approves payouts in John Ware School abuse class action against CBE

    A judge approved tiered payouts totaling about $15.8 million from the Calgary Board of Education to more than 50 former students who alleged abuse at John Ware School between 1988 and 2004. The board apologized, and the settlement gives survivors a role in shaping policy and training.

    Settlement Calgary Board of Education (John Ware School)Canada, AlbertaReported by Global News

  2. Uber found liable in second federal bellwether trial over driver misconduct

    A federal jury in a North Carolina case found Uber liable for a driver's battery of a rider and awarded $5,000, after the judge ruled Uber is a common carrier under state law. Uber noted jurors found battery rather than sexual assault.

    Verdict Uber TechnologiesUnited States, North CarolinaReported by FOX 5 New York

  3. Lawsuit against Massage Envy follows sexual abuse charge against Lexington therapist

    A client sued Massage Envy in Fayette Circuit Court alleging it failed to supervise staff and implement safeguards after a therapist at its Lexington location was charged with first-degree sexual abuse. The suit also alleges the franchise concealed known risks across its locations.

    Lawsuit filed Massage EnvyUnited States, KentuckyReported by WKYT

  4. Bankruptcy judge sets claims deadline in El Paso Diocese abuse case

    A federal bankruptcy judge set a September deadline for survivors to file abuse claims against the Diocese of El Paso after its Chapter 11 filing. The claims will shape a payment plan that survivors must vote on.

    Lawsuit filed Catholic Diocese of El PasoUnited States, TexasReported by KTSM

  5. Former IU basketball players appeal dismissal of suit over team doctor exams

    Five former Indiana University men's basketball players are appealing a federal judge's ruling that their lawsuit, alleging the university and a former head trainer failed to stop abusive exams by a late team doctor, was filed too late. The plaintiffs argue the limitations period should run from when they recognized the conduct as abuse.

    Lawsuit filed Indiana UniversityUnited States, IndianaReported by Indiana Public Media

  6. Maryland faces potential $60 billion liability from child sex abuse claims against state

    More than 12,000 claims have been filed against Maryland government entities under the Child Victims Act, with some lawmakers estimating exposure could reach $60 billion. Questions remain over which damages cap applies and how the state would pay.

    Lawsuit filed State of MarylandUnited States, MarylandReported by WBFF Fox 45 (via BishopAccountability.org)

  7. 11th Circuit revives three sex trafficking lawsuits against metro Atlanta hotels

    A federal appeals court reinstated three previously dismissed lawsuits alleging Atlanta-area hotels facilitated trafficking of minors, sending them toward trial. The precedential ruling applies across Georgia, Florida and Alabama.

    Lawsuit filed Metro Atlanta hotelsUnited States, GeorgiaReported by The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

March 2026

  1. BBC ends contract with Radio 2 host Scott Mills amid reports of closed historical police probe

    The BBC said presenter Scott Mills is no longer contracted to it, following media reports linking him to a past police investigation into historical sexual offence allegations. Prosecutors found insufficient evidence to bring charges and the case was closed in 2019; Mills did not comment.

    Allegation BBCUnited KingdomReported by TimesLIVE (Reuters)

  2. Woman sues Planet Fitness alleging assault by known problem patron at South Carolina gym

    A member alleges in a negligence suit that another patron sexually assaulted her in a West Ashley Planet Fitness and that staff later described him as a known problem. The company had not responded to requests for comment.

    Lawsuit filed Planet FitnessUnited States, South CarolinaReported by Live 5 News (WCSC)

  3. New lawsuit accuses Paramus Catholic and Archdiocese of Newark of ignoring coach's abuse

    A former student filed a civil suit alleging a former hockey coach abused him on campus and on school trips, and that the school, the Archdiocese of Newark and the Christian Brothers knew and failed to act. It is one of dozens of suits involving the late coach; the archdiocese declined to comment.

    Lawsuit filed Paramus Catholic High SchoolUnited States, New JerseyReported by The Record (via BishopAccountability.org)

  4. Santa Fe jury orders Meta to pay New Mexico $375 million in child exploitation case

    A jury found Meta willfully violated New Mexico's consumer protection law by misrepresenting platform safety, including the extent of child sexual exploitation, and awarded the state $375 million. Meta said it would appeal.

    Verdict Meta PlatformsUnited States, New MexicoReported by Source NM

  5. California AG finds systemic failures at El Monte Union High School District, imposes court-supervised reforms

    An 18-month state investigation prompted by reporting on misconduct at Rosemead High found systemic shortfalls in how the district responded to sexual abuse and harassment complaints, including discarded disciplinary records. A settlement requires a compliance coordinator, centralized records and four years of court oversight.

    Settlement El Monte Union High School DistrictUnited States, CaliforniaReported by CalMatters

  6. Federal guard at Brooklyn's MDC indicted on sexual abuse charge

    Correctional officer James Johnson was charged in a federal indictment with sexually abusing a detainee in 2025 and lying to federal agents. He was released on bail and has not been convicted.

    Criminal charges Federal Bureau of PrisonsUnited States, New YorkReported by New York Post (via AOL)

  7. Former students file federal suit alleging Oconto Falls schools ignored staff abuse for years

    Three former students sued the Oconto Falls Board of Education in federal court, alleging at least nine staff members groomed or abused at least 14 students between 2005 and 2025 and that the district enabled it. The district says prior allegations were investigated and referred to police; the claims are unproven.

    Lawsuit filed Oconto Falls School DistrictUnited States, WisconsinReported by WBAY

  8. Former student files $13.4M claim against Mercer Island School District over alleged teacher abuse

    A former student's tort claim alleges administrators received reports about an English teacher's relationship with her in 2012 but conducted a cursory review and did not contact police until 2024. The district declined to comment, citing pending legal proceedings.

    Lawsuit filed Mercer Island School DistrictUnited States, WashingtonReported by InvestigateWest

  9. McDonald's franchisee to pay $80,000 to resolve EEOC harassment suit involving teen worker

    An Oklahoma McDonald's franchisee agreed to a consent decree paying $80,000 and adopting anti-harassment policies and training to settle an EEOC suit over harassment of a minor employee. The franchisee denies the allegations.

    Settlement Arch Fellow (McDonald's franchisee)United States, OklahomaReported by Franchise Times

  10. Rhode Island AG report details decades of clergy abuse in Diocese of Providence

    Attorney General Peter Neronha released a multi-year investigation into clergy abuse and the diocese's handling of it, summarizing 72 clergy deemed credibly accused. The report recommended reforms including extending certain limitations periods.

    Investigation Diocese of ProvidenceUnited States, Rhode IslandReported by WJAR NBC 10

February 2026

  1. New Hanover County school board approves settlement tied to convicted former teacher

    The board unanimously approved a settlement, reported at $640,000, with three more former students of a science teacher who pleaded guilty in 2019 to dozens of child exploitation charges. Plaintiffs alleged a principal's failure to act allowed the abuse to continue; an earlier case settled for $5.75 million without admission of wrongdoing.

    Settlement New Hanover County SchoolsUnited States, North CarolinaReported by WHQR

  2. LAUSD approves up to $250M more in bonds to pay sexual abuse settlements

    The LAUSD board authorized up to $250 million in bonds for abuse settlements, its second such authorization in a year, bringing the total to about $750 million. The wave of claims follows a 2019 state law extending the deadline for childhood abuse claims against public entities.

    Settlement Los Angeles Unified School DistrictUnited States, CaliforniaReported by EdSource

  3. Jewell School District pays $2.35M over claims it ignored complaints about convicted shop teacher

    The rural Oregon district settled a federal lawsuit alleging administrators failed to act on multiple complaints about a shop teacher, later convicted of sex crimes, and let him resign quietly and work with younger children elsewhere. The settlement was reached in 2025 but only recently made public.

    Settlement Jewell School DistrictUnited States, OregonReported by The Astorian

  4. Families pursue legal action against Bright Horizons after nursery worker jailed for child abuse

    Former Bright Horizons nursery worker Vincent Chan was sentenced to 18 years after admitting dozens of offences including abuse at a now-closed north London nursery. About 50 families have joined legal action accusing the company of ignoring safeguarding concerns; the company says it is reviewing its practices.

    Conviction Bright Horizons Family SolutionsUnited KingdomReported by Malay Mail (AFP)

  5. Uber loses first federal passenger sexual assault trial with $8.5 million verdict

    A federal jury in Phoenix found Uber liable on an apparent-agency theory for a driver's alleged assault of a rider and awarded $8.5 million, while rejecting negligence and design-defect claims. Uber said it would appeal.

    Verdict Uber TechnologiesUnited States, ArizonaReported by Bloomberg Law

January 2026

  1. City of Sanger pays $5.25 million over former officer's sexual assaults

    Sanger settled a claim for $5.25 million brought by a woman assaulted by former officer J. DeShawn Torrence, who was convicted in federal court and is serving multiple life sentences. More claims against the city may follow.

    Settlement City of Sanger Police DepartmentUnited States, CaliforniaReported by GV Wire

  2. Winnsboro ISD superintendents arrested on charges of failing to report child abuse

    The district's former and current superintendents and another employee were arrested on charges including failure to report child abuse with intent to conceal, with affidavits alleging officials covered up two cases involving staff and students. Their counsel indicated they will plead not guilty.

    Criminal charges Winnsboro Independent School DistrictUnited States, TexasReported by KLTV

  3. Judge returns LA County foster-care abuse cases to trial track amid settlement delays

    A judge ordered dozens of foster-care abuse lawsuits against Los Angeles County to move toward trial while the county's large juvenile abuse settlement remains in distribution. The court warned that settlement delays do not pause filing deadlines.

    Lawsuit filed Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family ServicesUnited States, CaliforniaReported by California Courts Newsroom

  4. Women held at LA County jail allege sexual abuse by deputies in federal suit

    Thirty-eight plaintiffs in a federal case allege widespread sexual misconduct by deputies at the women's jail in Lynwood. The Sheriff's Department says it is investigating the claims.

    Lawsuit filed Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, Century Regional Detention FacilityUnited States, CaliforniaReported by KFI AM 640

  5. Springfield to pay nearly $15M to settle suits alleging school ignored abuse reports

    The city of Springfield agreed to pay close to $15 million to settle two lawsuits alleging a former middle school teacher harassed and assaulted students whose reports to staff were repeatedly dismissed. The school department plans $1 million in staff training on recognizing and reporting grooming.

    Settlement Springfield Public Schools (STEM Middle Academy)United States, MassachusettsReported by New England Public Media

December 2025

  1. Contract officer pleads guilty to sexually abusing detainee at Louisiana ICE facility

    Former contract detention officer David Courvelle pleaded guilty in federal court to sexual misconduct with a person in federal custody at the Basile, Louisiana, facility. The charge carries up to 15 years in prison.

    Conviction U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, South Louisiana ICE Processing CenterUnited States, LouisianaReported by WAFB

  2. Federal judge lets WWE 'ring boys' abuse lawsuit proceed to discovery

    A federal judge in Maryland allowed a lawsuit to move into discovery that alleges WWE and Vince and Linda McMahon knew of and failed to stop sexual abuse of underage ring crew workers decades ago. Linda McMahon's lawyer called the suit baseless.

    Lawsuit filed WWEUnited States, MarylandReported by The Center Square (via AOL)

  3. Women sue Match Group alleging Hinge and Tinder let convicted Denver doctor keep using apps

    Six women allege in Denver District Court that Match Group's apps kept recommending Stephen Matthews, later convicted of multiple sexual assaults, after receiving complaints about him. Match Group said it is committed to improving its safety tools.

    Lawsuit filed Match Group (Hinge, Tinder)United States, ColoradoReported by Scripps News

  4. Florida attorney general sues Roblox over alleged failure to protect children from predators

    Florida's attorney general sued Roblox alleging it facilitates sexual exploitation of minors and misrepresents its safety, in violation of state consumer protection law. Roblox said the suit misrepresents how its platform works.

    Lawsuit filed RobloxUnited States, FloridaReported by MediaPost

  5. Federal judge approves Archdiocese of New Orleans bankruptcy plan with abuse fund

    A federal judge confirmed a plan ending the archdiocese's long bankruptcy, including a $230 million compensation fund for clergy abuse survivors. Additional money is expected from an insurer and parishes.

    Settlement Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New OrleansUnited States, LouisianaReported by KSLA

  6. Chicago Board of Education approves $17.5M settlement over former dean's abuse of student

    The board approved a $17.5 million settlement with a former student abused by a dean of students who was convicted and sentenced to 22 years; the suit alleged staff saw warning signs and did not act. CPS denied wrongdoing but said it settled to avoid the toll of a trial.

    Settlement Chicago Public Schools (Greater Lawndale High School for Social Justice)United States, IllinoisReported by WTTW News

November 2025

  1. California judge denies Roblox bid to force child exploitation lawsuit into arbitration

    A San Mateo County judge rejected Roblox's motion to compel arbitration in a family's suit alleging its child was exploited after contact on Roblox and Discord, keeping the case in open court. Roblox said it would appeal.

    Lawsuit filed RobloxUnited States, CaliforniaReported by ABC7 Los Angeles

October 2025

  1. Former foster parents sue Clearfield County child welfare agency over undisclosed abuse history

    A former foster couple filed a federal lawsuit alleging the county agency placed a teen in their home without disclosing his history of abusing other children, leading to harm in the household. The claims are allegations.

    Lawsuit filed Clearfield County Children, Youth and Family ServicesUnited States, PennsylvaniaReported by Altoona Mirror

  2. Varsity Brands and former owner Bain Capital named in $200 million cheer abuse lawsuit

    A Gwinnett County, Georgia, lawsuit alleges Varsity Brands, Bain Capital, USA Cheer and others failed to safeguard young athletes from a cheer coach accused of sexual exploitation, including RICO claims. Varsity rejects the claim that it enabled such conduct.

    Lawsuit filed Varsity BrandsUnited States, GeorgiaReported by Front Office Sports