New York Juvenile Facility Psychologist Arrested on Sexual Assault Charges

In a deeply troubling development, a psychologist working at a New York juvenile detention facility has been arrested on multiple charges of sexual assault and rape. Maya Hayes, 46, who was employed at the Brookwood Secure Center in Claverack, faces 65 counts of criminal sexual acts alleged to have occurred between November 2020 and late 2022.

The charges involve eight youth victims between the ages of 16 and 18 who were under Hayes' care as patients at the facility. This case highlights the urgent need for improved oversight and protection of vulnerable youth in state custody.

Details of the Case

According to the Columbia County District Attorney's Office, the investigation into Hayes' alleged crimes began after the discovery of contraband at Brookwood. The year-long inquiry involved multiple agencies, including:

• The state's child welfare agency
• The Justice Center for the Protection of People With Special Needs
• The New York State Police

Hayes has pleaded not guilty to all charges and was released on bail under supervision. If convicted, she could face a maximum sentence of 16 months to four years per count, potentially served consecutively.

Systemic Issues in New York's Juvenile Facilities

This arrest comes at a time when New York's juvenile detention system is already under scrutiny. A recent audit by State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli revealed alarming levels of self-harm, drug use, and violent incidents in the state's residential centers. These issues have been exacerbated by pandemic-related staffing shortages and increased populations following reforms that moved older teens out of the adult justice system.

Legal Commentary

Thomas Giuffra, Esq., a partner at Thomas Giuffra, Esq. - The Abuse Lawyer NY and an experienced attorney in sexual abuse cases, offered his perspective on this disturbing case:

"The allegations against Maya Hayes are deeply troubling and highlight the vulnerability of youth in detention facilities. These young individuals, already in difficult circumstances, deserve protection and support, not exploitation. Cases like this underscore the critical importance of rigorous background checks, proper supervision, and clear reporting mechanisms in juvenile facilities.

As an attorney who has represented numerous survivors of sexual abuse, I cannot stress enough the long-lasting trauma such experiences can cause. It's crucial that the victims in this case receive proper support and counseling. Additionally, a thorough investigation must be conducted to determine if there were any systemic failures that allowed this alleged abuse to occur and continue over an extended period.

Survivors of such abuse should know that they have legal options. New York's Child Victims Act and the Adult Survivors Act have extended the statute of limitations for filing civil lawsuits related to sexual abuse. These laws provide opportunities for survivors to seek justice and hold institutions accountable for failing to protect them."

Moving Forward

This case serves as a stark reminder of the need for constant vigilance and improved safeguards in juvenile detention facilities. It is crucial that thorough investigations are conducted, not only into the specific allegations against Hayes but also into the broader systems and protocols at Brookwood and similar facilities across the state.

For survivors of abuse in juvenile detention centers or other institutional settings, it's important to know that help and support are available. Legal options exist to hold abusers and negligent institutions accountable. If you or someone you know has experienced abuse, please reach out to qualified legal professionals or support organizations for guidance and assistance.

Source:

https://imprintnews.org/top-stories/new-york-facility-psychologist-arrested-on-sexual-assault/248822