The Fall of The Cadets: A Legacy Tarnished by Allegations and Bankruptcy

The Cadets, a storied drum and bugle corps with roots dating back to 1934, recently announced their closure following a Chapter 7 bankruptcy filing. This decision comes amidst a backdrop of sexual abuse allegations and financial challenges that have rocked the organization to its core. The Cadets' story is not just one of financial mismanagement but also a reflection of the broader issues of accountability and justice in cases of historical abuse.

The Allegations and Legal Battle

In 2020, a sexual abuse lawsuit was filed in Bergen County, New Jersey, alleging that a child was abused by an instructor associated with The Cadets, then known as the Garfield Cadets, during the early 1980s. The lawsuit names multiple defendants, including The Cadets Drum and Bugle Corps, Youth Education in the Arts (YEA!), and Drum Corps International Inc. (DCI).

The lawsuit emerged following New Jersey's legislative change in 2019, which extended the statute of limitations for civil actions related to past sexual abuse. This change allowed victims a two-year window to file claims, leading to the lawsuit against The Cadets and associated entities.

Financial Struggles and Bankruptcy

The financial implications of the lawsuit, combined with other economic challenges, led Cadets Arts & Entertainment Inc., the nonprofit owner of The Cadets, to file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in the Western District of Pennsylvania. This filing marks the end of The Cadets' participation in the competitive marching arts, a decision that has left a significant void in the community.

The Cadets had already announced the suspension of their 2024 competition season due to financial shortfalls, a decision made just a year after relocating their headquarters to Erie, Pennsylvania, from Allentown.

The bankruptcy filing signifies the culmination of these financial difficulties, exacerbated by the ongoing legal battle.

Impact on the Community and Legacy

The Cadets have been a pillar of the marching arts community, known for their innovative performances and numerous accolades. Their closure not only affects the members and alumni but also the broader community that has supported and been inspired by their work over the decades.

The allegations and subsequent bankruptcy have cast a shadow over The Cadets' legacy, raising questions about leadership, governance, and the responsibility of organizations to protect and support their members.

Attorney Commentary: Ashley DiLiberto, Esq.

Ashley DiLiberto, Esq., a prominent attorney specializing in abuse cases, provides her insights: "The case of The Cadets underscores the critical importance of transparency and accountability in organizations, especially those involving minors. The legal system's adaptation to allow historical claims of abuse to be heard is a significant step towards justice for survivors. However, it also places a burden on organizations to address past wrongs and ensure robust safeguarding measures are in place.

For survivors, the extension of the statute of limitations offers a renewed opportunity to seek justice and closure. It's essential for organizations facing similar allegations to prioritize the welfare of survivors and engage in meaningful dialogue to address their claims. The bankruptcy filing by Cadets Arts & Entertainment Inc. reflects the severe financial impact that legal battles can have, but it should not overshadow the primary issue at hand: addressing and rectifying the harm caused to survivors. Moving forward, it is crucial for organizations to learn from this case and implement comprehensive policies to prevent such incidents from occurring."

The story of The Cadets is a cautionary tale of how historical allegations, if not addressed promptly and transparently, can lead to significant repercussions. As the organization closes its doors, the focus must remain on supporting survivors and ensuring that similar incidents are prevented in the future. The legal landscape continues to evolve, offering hope for justice and accountability, but it requires commitment and action from all involved parties.

Source:

https://www.abc27.com/pennsylvania/pennsylvania-drum-corps-files-for-bankruptcy-amid-sexual-abuse-lawsuit-will-not-march-again/