The Wagner Law Group is actively representing survivors of sexual abuse committed by staff at California prisons, jails, and detention facilities. If you were sexually abused, assaulted, or harassed by a correctional officer or prison employee, you have legal rights — and we are here to fight for you. Call 833-200-7111 for a free, confidential consultation. No fee unless we win.
Prison Staff Sexual Abuse Is a Civil Rights Violation
Sexual contact between prison staff and incarcerated people is illegal under both federal and California law — without exception. There is no such thing as consent between an inmate and a correctional officer. When prison staff sexually abuse, assault, or harass incarcerated women, they violate the Eighth Amendment of the United States Constitution, which prohibits cruel and unusual punishment.
Survivors of prison staff sexual abuse can pursue civil rights claims under 42 U.S.C. Section 1983, which allows individuals to sue government employees who violate their constitutional rights. Additionally, the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) establishes federal standards requiring correctional institutions to prevent, detect, and respond to sexual abuse. Institutions that fail to uphold these standards can face legal liability alongside individual abusers.
Active Cases
FCI Dublin — Federal Prison Sexual Abuse
The Federal Correctional Institution in Dublin, California became the subject of one of the most devastating prison sexual abuse scandals in United States history. Correctional officers and staff — referred to in media reports as “The Rape Club” — systematically sexually assaulted incarcerated women over the course of years. Multiple staff members and the former warden have since been federally convicted. The Wagner Law Group represents survivors who were abused while incarcerated at FCI Dublin and are pursuing civil rights claims for full compensation.
Learn more about FCI Dublin cases →
Chowchilla — State Prison Sexual Abuse
The Wagner Law Group represents women who were sexually abused by correctional staff at state prisons in Chowchilla, California — including the Central California Women’s Facility (CCWF). Survivors have reported systemic abuse by staff members who exploited their positions of authority. If you were sexually abused while incarcerated at a Chowchilla facility, contact us to discuss your legal options.
Learn more about Chowchilla cases →
Other California Facilities
The Wagner Law Group also represents survivors from CIW (California Institution for Women), Otay Mesa Detention Center, Sutter County Jail, Valley State Prison, and other California correctional facilities. If your facility is not listed here, contact us — we evaluate cases from all California prisons, jails, and detention centers.
Who Can File a Prison Sexual Abuse Claim
You may have a valid legal claim if:
- You were sexually abused, assaulted, or harassed by a correctional officer, guard, warden, or prison employee
- You witnessed or reported abuse and faced retaliation
- You were abused as a result of the institution’s failure to protect you from known risks
- You are currently incarcerated or have been released
- A family member was sexually abused while incarcerated
You do not need physical evidence. You do not need a prior criminal complaint. Your account matters and you deserve to be heard.
What Compensation Can Survivors Recover
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and psychological trauma
- Medical and mental health treatment costs
- Punitive damages against individual abusers
- Damages against the institution for failure to prevent abuse
- Loss of dignity and civil rights violations
Why Choose The Wagner Law Group
The Wagner Law Group has over 42 years of California trial experience and has recovered more than $300 million for clients. We have direct experience litigating against government institutions and large organizations. We understand how intimidating it can be to come forward — especially while incarcerated or recently released. Our consultations are completely confidential and there is never a fee unless we win.
Call 833-200-7111 or fill out our contact form for a free consultation.
Can I file a claim if I am still in prison?
Yes. You do not need to be released to pursue a civil rights claim. Contact us confidentially and we will advise you on the safest and most effective way to move forward given your situation.
How long do I have to file a prison sexual abuse claim?
Statutes of limitations vary depending on the facility and the type of claim. Federal civil rights claims and state claims have different deadlines. Do not wait — contact us as soon as possible so we can evaluate your specific timeframe and protect your right to file.
What if I signed something or was pressured to stay quiet?
Agreements signed under coercion or pressure from prison staff may not be enforceable. Contact us regardless of whether you were asked to stay silent — we can review your situation and advise you on your options.
Will filing a lawsuit put me at risk inside the facility?
Retaliation against inmates for filing legal claims is illegal under federal law. We take retaliation concerns seriously and advise clients on how to protect themselves throughout the process.
How much does it cost to speak with an attorney?
Nothing. Our consultations are free and confidential. We work on contingency — you pay no fees unless we recover compensation for you.