Were You Abused at Waxter Center?
You may have legal options.
Laurel, Maryland
3
Documented Incidents
1
Lawsuits Filed
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What Happened at Waxter Center
The Thomas J.S. Waxter Children's Center in Laurel, Maryland faced a documented pattern of abuse and safety violations that spanned over a decade before its eventual closure in 2022. The Maryland Department of Juvenile Services facility drew scrutiny as early as 2011, when the Juvenile Justice Monitoring Report identified serious concerns and called for the facility's closure. Despite these early warnings, the center continued operations for another eleven years while problems persisted. The culmination of decades of documented abuse came to light in 2024, when former inmates filed sexual abuse lawsuits against the Department of Juvenile Services, bringing legal action against the state agency responsible for operating the facility. The 2022 closure of Waxter Center marked the end of a troubled institution that had failed to protect the vulnerable youth in its care. While one lawsuit has been filed, no settlements have been reached as of current reporting, leaving questions about accountability and compensation for victims unresolved. If you or someone you know was affected by abuse at the Thomas J.S. Waxter Children's Center or other juvenile detention facilities, consider consulting with legal professionals who specialize in institutional abuse cases to understand your rights and options for seeking justice.
- Location
- Laurel, Maryland 20707
- Facility Type
- state detention
- Status
- closed
Documented Incidents & Lawsuits
The following have been documented through news reports, court filings, and official investigations.
Former Inmates File Sexual Abuse Lawsuits Against DJS
A large number of women who were sexually abused as inmates at Waxter have filed civil lawsuits against DJS under the Maryland Child Victims Act.
Waxter Center Closed After Decades of Documented Abuse
The Thomas J.S. Waxter Childrens Center was finally closed in January 2022 after decades of documented abuse, mistreatment, and calls for closure.
Juvenile Justice Monitoring Report Calls for Closure
A 2011 juvenile justice monitoring report concluded that the Waxter detention facility should be closed due to systemic problems with abuse and conditions.
Your Legal Rights in Maryland
Statute of Limitations
No limit under Child Victims Act (2023)
No Upfront Costs
Attorneys work on contingency - you pay nothing unless you win.
You May Be Entitled To
Compensation for pain & suffering, medical expenses, therapy costs, lost wages, and more.
Related News
Former Inmates File Sexual Abuse Lawsuits Against DJS
Former inmates of the Waxter Children's Center are filing sexual abuse lawsuits against the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services under the Child Victims Act, which eliminated the statute of limitations.
Waxter Center Closed After Decades of Documented Abuse
The Thomas J.S. Waxter Children's Center was finally closed in January 2022 after decades of documented abuse. Survivors are now filing lawsuits under the Maryland Child Victims Act.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Location
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Nearby Facilities
- Morning Star Youth AcademyDorsey, MD•7.9 mi•4 incidents
- Thomas O'Farrell Youth CenterMarriottsville, MD•17.6 mi
- Charles H. Hickey Jr. SchoolBaltimore, MD•18.4 mi•5 incidents
- Baltimore City Juvenile Justice CenterBaltimore, MD•18.7 mi•3 incidents
- Arlington County Juvenile Detention FacilityArlington, VA•20 mi
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If you or a loved one experienced abuse at Waxter Center, you may be entitled to significant compensation. Contact us for a free, confidential case evaluation.
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