Charity may have been on notice about Sandusky sexual allegations
When a supervisor of children abuses his power to coerce or force them into performing illicit acts, the individual will have to answer to criminal charges levied against him. Charges for intentional criminal acts are certainly for the one who commits them, but what about those who negligently allow the acts to go on? Should they be required to prevent possible victims once they become aware of an injury risk?
The Sandusky criminal investigation into sexual allegations of abuse against young children has brought civil focus on the charity foundation that the former football coach founded in 1997. Some experts say that the charity could be held responsible for negligence in allowing Sandusky to continue to work with the children at the charity after having allegedly been notified twice about the possibility the sexual allegations.
The charity was called Second Mile and was set up to help foster children. The charity had a large success rate in the past few decades in helping children succeed in leadership and fitness, providing mentorship and other resources. The charity group said that they screened employees for potential sexual predators, but many state laws are not extensive when it comes to requirements for background checks. The charity was allegedly used by the football coach as a way for him to come into contact and build relationships with the young boys.
During the investigation into the sexual allegations it came to light that the charity may have had prior knowledge of two incidents involving the former football coach and young boys. “One allegation is a red flag,” said one expert about the complaints made to the charity. “It puts you on notice. If after that point you don’t do anything, it’s on you.” Experts say that while the incident has only made its way into criminal court, civil suits are a very likely possibility for the future.
Source: USA Today, “Sandusky sex abuse scandal puts focus on Second Mile charity,” Brad Heath, Nov. 14, 2011
