Devereux Employee in West Chester Accused of Sexually Assaulting Teen Girl in Care

A trusted employee of the Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health facility in West Chester, Pennsylvania, has been arrested and charged with sexually assaulting a teenage girl in his care. According to NBC Philadelphia, the victim—a resident at the facility—reported that the employee engaged in sexual misconduct over multiple encounters while she was under his supervision. Authorities launched an investigation that led to his arrest and formal charges including institutional sexual assault and corruption of minors.

This case has sent shockwaves through the community and raised significant concerns about the safety protocols at Devereux, which operates multiple behavioral health and residential treatment facilities across Pennsylvania and the country.

Institutional Abuse at Youth Facilities Undermines Public Trust

Devereux’s mission includes supporting children and adolescents with emotional, behavioral, and developmental challenges—many of whom are already vulnerable due to past trauma, disabilities, or involvement in the child welfare system. When an employee at such an institution abuses their position to exploit a minor, it constitutes a horrific betrayal of trust.

Unfortunately, cases like this are not uncommon. Facilities that house at-risk youth are expected to enforce strict safeguards and background checks to protect residents from harm. When they fail to do so, they can be held accountable for the abuse and neglect that occurs under their watch.

Civil Lawsuits Help Survivors of Institutional Abuse Seek Justice

While the criminal justice system will determine guilt and punishment for the accused, survivors of sexual abuse in institutional settings also have the right to pursue civil lawsuits. These lawsuits provide a path for survivors to receive financial compensation for trauma, therapy, and long-term care needs—and they also serve a vital role in exposing systemic negligence.

At Survivors of Abuse PA, we help survivors of institutional abuse take legal action against not only the individual perpetrators but also the facilities that failed to protect them. In this case, if Devereux failed to properly vet, train, or supervise the employee involved, they could be liable in a civil suit for damages and for failing in their legal duty of care.

Attorney Michael Pfau, Esq. Speaks Out on West Chester Case

Michael Pfau, Esq., a leading attorney with Survivors of Abuse PA, shared his response to the troubling allegations:

"Children and teens placed in care facilities are among the most vulnerable members of our society. When the institutions entrusted with their safety instead become sites of exploitation and harm, it is not only unacceptable—it is legally and morally reprehensible. We are committed to holding institutions like Devereux fully accountable and supporting survivors on their path to healing."

Mr. Pfau and his team offer trauma-informed, confidential legal representation to abuse survivors across Pennsylvania, with a strong track record of handling complex institutional abuse cases.

Warning Signs and What Families Should Watch For

Families with children in treatment facilities should be aware of the signs of sexual abuse, which can include:

• Sudden behavioral changes, withdrawal, or aggression

• Fear of certain staff members or environments

• Unexplained injuries or physical symptoms

• Reports of inappropriate comments or contact

If your child discloses abuse or shows concerning signs, it’s critical to act immediately.

What to Do If You Suspect Abuse at a Behavioral Health Facility

If you suspect that your child or loved one has been abused at a residential facility:

• Contact law enforcement immediately to report the abuse.

• Seek medical and psychological care for the victim.

• Document any statements or evidence related to the abuse.

• Contact an experienced attorney to explore your legal options.

Survivors of Abuse PA is here to help you take the next step with compassion, discretion, and strength.

Call us today at (267) 502-9090 for a free and confidential consultation. Your voice matters. Your story deserves justice.

Source:

https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/west-chester-county-devereux-employee-sexual-assault-teen-girl-pennsylvania/3945924/