Skip to main content

Legal Claim Assistant

Sexual Assault

DOJ Finds California Women’s Prisons Failed to Protect Women From Staff Sexual Abuse

DOJ Finds California Women's Prisons Failed to Protect Women From Staff Sexual Abuse

On September 4, 2024, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) opened a civil rights investigation into two California prisons for women. The two facilities are the Central California Women’s Facility (CCWF) in Chowchilla and the California Institution for Women (CIW) in Chino. The investigation examined allegations that correctional staff sexually abused women held at both […]

Sexual assault is any sexual act without clear, free, and informed consent. It’s a crime of power and control, not about attraction or desire. It can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender, or sexual orientation. Forms of sexual assault include rape, attempted rape, sexual touching, and any other unwanted sexual contact.

It’s crucial to understand that alcohol or drug use never excuses sexual assault. Someone who is incapacitated cannot give consent. Victim-blaming is never acceptable; the perpetrator is always responsible for their actions.

If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, you are not alone. Resources are available to help. You can contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-HOPE or visit RAINN’s website at rainn.org for confidential support and information. Seeking help is a sign of strength, and you deserve justice and healing.