A federal lawsuit is underway against Secret Harbor Group Home, termed “juvenile Alcatraz” by many former residents. Darrell Cochran, Andy Ulmer and Alex Dietz represent nearly a dozen men who allegedly suffered physical and sexual abuse as residents of the home in the 80s and 90s.
According to the complaint, Secret Harbor failed to protect plaintiffs, ignored complaints of abuse and “regularly hired staff with prior convictions and substance abuse issues.”
“I expect there will be more people coming forward over time given the length of time the facility has operated and the enduring nature of the violently sexualized toxic environment that existed there for generations of foster children,” Darrell told the Seattle Times.
The impacts of abuse often result in long-lasting emotional and psychological problems. PCVA has a national reputation for aiding those who have suffered at the hands of institutions that turn a blind eye to abuse. If you or someone you know suffered abuse at Secret Harbor, please contact us.
Media coverage about the lawsuit:
Lawsuits target WA group home, ‘juvenile Alcatraz’ for troubled boys, The Seattle Times, 1/18/23