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Maryland Public School Sexual Abuse Lawsuits

Posted on December 29, 2025December 29, 2025 by Loni Liss

Often, public attention around school sexual abuse lawsuits in Maryland has focused on historical cases. Survivors who were hurt long ago, usually silenced by shame, fear, or power, finally found a way forward.

The Maryland Child Victims Act (CVA) reopened the courthouse doors. It did this by removing the time limit for childhood sexual abuse survivors. The Yost Legal Group is dedicated to helping survivors of childhood sexual abuse.

But it is critical to say this clearly: sexual abuse of children (whether in a place of worship, recreation, or education) is not just a historical problem. It remains a present-day crisis.

According to RAINN, every nine minutes, a child in the United States is made the victim of a sexual assault.

Children are still being abused today. Survivors are still being created today. And the institutions charged with protecting children, which include Maryland public schools, are still capable of failing them in devastating ways.

Recent Allegations Against John McAleer of Frederick County Highlight a Modern Sexual Abuse Crisis

Consider the claims against John McAleer. He was a Special Education Instructional Assistant at Oakdale Middle School in Frederick County. This case serves as a clear reminder of this reality. His case is not about distant decades or expired records.

This situation involves recent harm, vulnerable students, and a school system that people entrusted with care, supervision, and safety.

If you or a loved one was molested by a Maryland public school employee, you may be able to file a school sexual abuse lawsuit. The Yost Legal Group has years of experience pursuing litigation against public institutions that have harbored abusers and disregarded survivors. But enough is enough.

You deserve to be heard. If you are ready to talk, we are here to listen. Call 1-800-967-8529 for a free and confidential consultation with an experienced child sexual abuse attorney or legal team member. We are here to help.

The Negative Impact of Childhood Sexual Assault

Are you a survivor of childhood sexual abuse or statutory rape? Are you carrying around anger, confusion, fear, and shame? The long-term effects of surviving a sexual assault go far beyond the physical harm it can cause.

Many survivors question whether what happened to them “counts” as sexual abuse. Others worry that too much time had passed, that no one would believe them, or that speaking out will cause more harm. You are not alone.

Those fears are not accidental. They are the product of systems that historically protected institutions instead of children.

Sexual abuse survivors often develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). And though we think of PTSD as an emotional response, it is actually a stress-related brain injury.

According to Brainline.org, extreme stress can cause the amygdala to enlarge. The amygdala is the part of the brain that handles emotions. It also shrinks the central cortex. The central cortex controls logical thinking.

This can lead to anger, depression, and hypervigilance. At The Yost Legal Group, we represent survivors of sexual abuse with one guiding principle: accountability matters. Not only for individual perpetrators, but for the institutions that enabled access, ignored warning signs, or failed to act when children were at risk.

You are not responsible for what happened to you. You are not alone. And you have the right to ask whether the school system that employed your abuser can be held legally responsible.

Our firm is currently representing a survivor harmed by John McAleer. We take that responsibility seriously, and we approach these cases with care, discretion, and resolve.

If you have any questions or concerns about a school sexual abuse lawsuit, contact us at your earliest convenience.

Who Is John McAleer—and Why His Role Matters

John McAleer is 22 years old. He used to work as a Special Education Instructional Assistant at Oakdale Middle School. This school is in Ijamsville, Frederick County, Maryland.

According to charging documents and media reports, McAleer is accused of sexually abusing multiple students. Some of the alleged victims were cognitively impaired or particularly vulnerable due to their disabilities.

The allegations include extreme acts that go far beyond mere boundary or decorum violations. These are textbook criminal sexual abuse allegations.

Special education instructional assistants are not casual observers. They are granted authority, proximity, and trust. They often work one-on-one with students who may have difficulty communicating, such as those who are nonverbal.

These conditions make it nearly impossible to report abuse or even recognize that what is happening to them is wrong. McAleer’s role created an opportunity for care, a way to uplift a young and vulnerable person’s life. Instead, he is alleged to have used his access for exploitation.

As there are multiple allegations spanning several months, safeguards within the school system failed to protect multiple students.

The Allegations Against McAleer Are Deeply Disturbing

Prosecutors allege that McAleer used his position within Oakdale Middle School to gain access to students and sexually abuse them. Reports indicate that the alleged conduct occurred on school grounds and during school-related activities.

These were not isolated encounters between strangers. These were interactions facilitated by employment, access, and institutional trust.

Law enforcement has described the accusations as involving repeated abuse, including sexual assault and rape of minors. The victims, according to reports, include children with special needs, the most vulnerable of students who relied on adults for advocacy and protection.

When abuse occurs under these circumstances, the legal inquiry does not stop with the individual accused. We must expand the scope of the investigation and fault.

Institutional Responsibility Does Not End with an Arrest

When a public school employee is accused of sexually abusing students, the question is not only “What did they do?” It is also “How were they allowed to do it?”

Frederick County Public Schools, like all Maryland public school systems, has a legal and moral duty to protect students. That duty includes proper hiring, background checks, training, supervision, and swift intervention when concerns arise. When that system breaks down, the consequences are measured in trauma.

In these cases, investigators and civil lawyers look for warning signs. They check if complaints were handled poorly and if supervision was weak. They must also determine whether policies to prevent such occurrences had existed on paper but ultimately failed in practice.

Institutions often claim shock after abuse is uncovered. Abuse and sexual coercion rarely occur in a vacuum. It thrives in silence, in gaps in oversight, and in environments where vulnerable children are not adequately protected.

Why Special Education Students Face Heightened Risk

National data and decades of survivor testimony confirm that children with disabilities face a significantly higher risk of sexual abuse. They are more likely to depend on adults for personal care. More likely to be isolated from peers. More likely to be disbelieved when they report harm.

That reality imposes an even higher duty on schools.

When a school assigns staff to work closely with special education students, it must ensure that safeguards are real, enforced, and continuously monitored. Anything less is negligence.

If Frederick County Public Schools failed to protect these students, that failure deserves full legal scrutiny.

Civil Lawsuits Are About Accountability, Not Just Compensation

Survivors often hesitate to pursue civil claims because they worry about their motives being questioned. That hesitation is understandable. It is a lot to ask a person to come forward about something so traumatic, so damaging to the psyche.

However, when sexual assault survivors are able to report their abusers, there is a net-positive outcome on the world beyond an individual’s monetary gain.

Civil lawsuits serve multiple purposes. They provide financial resources for therapy and long-term care. They force institutions to answer questions under oath. They uncover documents that would otherwise remain hidden. And they deter future abuse by exposing systemic failures.

For survivors abused in schools, civil cases are often the only mechanism that compels change.

Speak with a Law Firm That Understands These Cases

At The Yost Legal Group, we approach school sexual abuse cases with the utmost care and discretion. We are a trauma-informed, client-first law firm here to help you understand and seek whatever healing you need.

We investigate perpetrators. We investigate institutions. And we center survivors at every stage of the process. If you are ready to talk, we are here to listen.

If you or someone you love was harmed by John McAleer or by any Maryland public school employee, you need an experienced sexual abuse lawyer. You deserve accountability and justice. And you deserve to know that your voice matters now, not decades from now.

The experienced childhood sexual abuse lawyers at The Yost Legal Group are here to help. Seek justice, answers, and compensation. Call today for a free and confidential trauma-informed consultation: 1-800-YOST-LAW (967-8529).

Institutional Sexual Abuse – Sexual Assault Lawyer – Abused as a Child – School Sexual Abuse Lawsuits

HB 462 and HB 464 Bills Stalled in PA Senate Again

Posted on November 25, 2025 by Loni Liss

A Detailed Update on Pennsylvania’s Stalled Lookback Window Legislation

Survivors of childhood sexual abuse in Pennsylvania have been fighting for something important. Many other states already recognize its significance. A chance to seek justice regardless of how long it took them to come forward. The Senate has stalled HB 462 and HB 464 bills again, and no vote has been scheduled.

More than 20 states have changed their civil statutes of limitations (SOLs) in the last decade. Many have set up “lookback windows.” These allow sexual assault survivors to file civil lawsuits, even if their claims expired years ago. Others, like our home state of Maryland in 2023, have removed their civil statute of limitations altogether.

Pennsylvania has not.

The 2018 grand jury report revealed years of sexual abuse in the Catholic Church. Despite this, the Pennsylvania Senate has not passed reform for the statute of limitations (SOL). Survivors who were molested watched as the same bills passed the House. They stalled in the Senate, expired, and then started over again.

Today, that cycle continues.

As of November 2025, House Bills 462 (HB 462) and 464 (HB 464) remain stalled. They both passed the Pennsylvania House of Representatives in June 2025. Both bills are now stuck in a Senate Committee. There is no scheduled vote, no public timeline, and no sign of progress.

Here at The Yost Legal Group, we believe CSA survivors deserve transparency. There is no new progress on the law to share. We want to make sure that child rape survivors and their families stay informed and supported.

Our sexual assault lawyers are actively monitoring these bills. We will continue to do so without making promises lawmakers have not earned.

Survivors of childhood sexual abuse in Pennsylvania have until their 55th birthday under the current law to file a civil lawsuit against their abuser. The experienced sexual abuse attorneys at The Yost Legal Group will help you understand your rights.

As a survivor, it is important to seek the justice you deserve. Call for a free consultation today. We will answer any questions you have.

What the Two Pennsylvania Bills Would Do

House Bill 462: A Lookback Window Through Statutory Law

HB 462 would create a civil “lookback window.” This would allow survivors whose claims are currently blocked by the statute of limitations to file lawsuits. They could sue their abusers and the institutions that helped them. This is the same type of legislation survivors’ groups have championed for years.

When HB 462 passed the House, it did so with a vote of 122–80.

House Bill 464: Moving a Constitutional Amendment Toward a Future Ballot Vote

HB 464 passed with even wider support at 138 to 64. It would advance the process of placing a constitutional amendment before Pennsylvania voters. This option requires three additional legislative votes before any proposal could actually appear on a statewide ballot.

Both bills take different paths to reach the same goal. They aim to give survivors a fair chance to seek justice, no matter when they decide to come forward.

This distinction matters because one route, statutory change, can be accomplished quickly if lawmakers agree. It is also less ironclad as it is open to constitutional challenges. That is why it is important for lawmakers to amend the Constitution itself. That route, however, can take years.

Why These Bills Stalled: A Pattern of Inaction in the Pennsylvania Senate

This is not the first time these proposals have passed the House only to die in the Senate.

Over two years ago, the same combination passed with strong support from both parties. This included a statutory lookback window and a constitutional amendment. Still, the amendments did not make it to the ballot in 2023.

Today, we are watching history repeat itself. The Senate Judiciary Committee has not scheduled hearings or votes. There is no public commitment to debate. There is no timeline, and no indication that action is coming soon.

Meanwhile, Governor Josh Shapiro, who served as Attorney General during the 2018 grand jury investigation, has been publicly critical of the Senate’s repeated refusal to act. As he said recently:

“It’s shameful … that the Senate of Pennsylvania has failed to act, has been unwilling to look these survivors in the eye and pass a statute of limitations window to allow those who’ve been abused to confront their abusers in a court of law.”

Survivors of sexual abuse deserve far better than political stalemates. That said, our child abuse lawyers will continue to monitor both bills.

If you are a victim of sexual abuse in Pennsylvania or Maryland, contact an experienced sexual assault attorney. The Yost Legal Group provides a free and confidential consultation. Call 1-800-967-8529 for guidance.

Why SOL Reform Matters: The 2018 Grand Jury Report Still Echoes Today

The push for SOL reform in Pennsylvania did not come out of nowhere. Its momentum grew directly from the 2018 statewide grand jury report. That exposed one of the largest institutional cover-ups of child sexual abuse in American history.

The grand jury found:

More than 1,000 children were abused by over 300 Catholic priests across six dioceses.
The “real number” was likely in the thousands, due to lost records and survivors who feared coming forward.
Senior church officials, including individuals who later rose to national leadership, covered up the abuse.
Police and prosecutors, at times, deferred to church leaders instead of investigating abuse.

The grand jury’s message was unflinching: “We are sick over all the crimes that will go unpunished and uncompensated.”

Because most of these cases were decades old, the criminal and civil statutes of limitations had expired. The church’s cover-up worked. Sexually exploited survivors could not sue. And the public outcry that followed led to the renewed push for SOL reform.

That movement continues to this day. The state needs its lawmakers to meet the moment.

Understanding Why Survivors Need More Time: The Reality of Delayed Disclosure

Some Pennsylvanians still argue that giving survivors until age 55 is “long enough.” But research shows this belief is deeply disconnected from the lived experience of surviving childhood sexual abuse.

According to Child USA, the national think tank for child protection:

The average age at which a survivor first reports childhood sexual abuse is 52 years old.
51% of survivors first disclose between ages 50 and 69.
Nearly half of sexual victimization survivors need more time than Pennsylvania currently provides.

Trauma, shame, fear, grooming, institutional pressure, and decades of silence can delay disclosure for a lifetime. When survivors are finally ready to speak, the law should meet them with dignity. Instead, they have been met with a figurative locked courthouse door.

This is why lookback windows have been enacted across the country. This is why survivors continue advocating. And this is why Pennsylvania’s ongoing inaction remains deeply painful for so many families.

Where Things Stand Now and Why We Are Still Watching Closely

As of today:

HB 462 and HB 464 have passed the Pennsylvania House.
Both bills are now in a Senate Committee, stalled without action.
There is no vote scheduled.
The Senate leadership has not announced debate or hearings.
There is no certainty that the legislature will move forward.

We are watching. We are waiting. And we are prepared to do our job to help survivors the moment lawmakers do theirs.

Your Rights Today And How We Can Help

Under current Pennsylvania law, survivors of childhood sexual abuse may file civil lawsuits until age 55. That remains true today. If these laws change in the future, we will move immediately to help survivors understand their expanded rights.

But you do not need to wait for a lookback window to explore your legal options now. Our trauma-informed team is here to:

Listen to your story safely.
Explain your current legal rights.
Help you understand potential claims against institutions like the church, schools, hospitals, and government agencies that are supposed to protect children in their care.
Guide you through each step at your own pace.

Call The Yost Legal Group at 1-800-967-8529 for a free, confidential consultation with a compassionate survivor-advocacy attorney.

Our sexual abuse lawyers will explain the legal process. This is for cases involving sexual offenses that occurred when you were a minor.

Sexual Abuse Definition – Child Sexual Coercion Claims

Statutory Rape Claims – Lawyers For Sexual Abuse

Recognizing the Signs of Childhood Sexual Abuse

Posted on August 5, 2025 by Loni Liss

It is difficult to determine the prevalence of childhood sexual abuse because it is not often reported. Current statistics show that one in four girls and one in six boys are survivors of childhood sexual abuse.[1]

Maryland has defined childhood sexual abuse as an act that involves the sexual molestation or exploitation of a minor, whether physical injuries are sustained or not.

This includes incest, rape, sexual offenses in any degree, and any other sexual conduct that is a crime.[2]

Maryland has expanded the legal options for survivors of childhood sexual abuse. They did so by passing the Maryland Child Victims Act of 2023, which gives survivors the right to file lawsuits related to the abuse, no matter how long ago the abuse occurred.[3]

When Children ‘Act Out’ or ‘Act In’: Understanding Behavioral Changes After Abuse

It can be challenging for survivors to come forward, and difficult for parents or guardians to recognize the signs of sexual abuse in girls and boys. Some children may begin to “act out” after their sexual abuse. This may include behavior problems, such as running away or cruelty towards others.

Some children may begin to “act in” after their sexual abuse. This may include becoming depressed and withdrawing from friends and family.

Some children may show signs of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), including agitated behavior, nightmares, and repetitive play. PTSD from sexual assault is very common in survivors.

Some children may also lose developmental skills and show regressive behavior. This can include bed-wetting and thumb-sucking.[4]

Without proper intervention, long-term symptoms may persist in adulthood. It is crucial for parents and guardians to offer non-judgmental support.

Breaking the Silence: Helping Children Heal After Sexual Abuse

The first step in offering a supportive healing process after childhood sexual abuse is to believe a survivor when they disclose that something happened to them. Not everyone processes trauma in the same way.

Some survivors may be calm when they disclose what happened to them, while some survivors may be highly emotional. Neither response is an indication of the severity of sexual abuse or how sexual abuse affected the survivor.

It is important for parents and guardians to support the survivor and not attempt to interpret the survivor’s emotional response when they disclose.

Saying things such as “I believe you” or “It took a lot of courage to tell me about this”[5] can show a survivor of childhood sexual assault that you are there to assist in their healing journey.

The Power of Reassurance: Supporting Survivors Through Their Journey

Another important step is to assure the survivor that the sexual abuse was not their fault. Many survivors report feeling a surreal feeling after the sexual abuse. This can cause a survivor to feel separate or isolated from their peers.[6]

This isolation can cause a survivor to blame themselves, or fear that they may be in trouble if the sexual abuse is uncovered.

Parents and guardians can assure a survivor that they are not at fault by reminding the survivor that they did not do anything to deserve what happened to them.[7]

This may have to be reiterated multiple times, as the healing process is not linear.

Additionally, it is key to remind the survivor that they are not alone. This can be done by being there for them and reminding them that you are willing to listen to their story.

It is also helpful to introduce resources and service providers who may be able to help a survivor on a professional level.

This can include doctors, therapists, or social workers who are trained to assist survivors of childhood sexual abuse. Parents and guardians can also acknowledge that the experience has affected the life of the survivor. This communicates empathy and shows that you care about the survivor.

Supporting Survivors: Steps to Help Heal After Sexual Abuse

Lastly, it is important to remember that there is no timeline for healing. While going through the healing process, remember to avoid judgment.

Eliminate phrases or statements that might make the survivor feel as if they are behind on their healing journey, such as “you have been acting like this for a while” or “how much longer will you feel this way?”[8]

Parents and guardians can check in with the survivor periodically to remind them that they are not alone. Remember to know your resources. The healing journey is not one that is meant to be taken alone.

The Yost Legal Group: A Safe Place for Survivors Seeking Justice

At The Yost Legal Group, we know that coming forward about childhood sexual abuse is one of the bravest steps a survivor can take.

Our sexual abuse attorneys are dedicated to providing a safe, supportive space for survivors of institutional childhood sexual abuse across Maryland.

We listen with compassion, and we fight fiercely for justice on your behalf—holding abusers and the institutions that enabled them accountable.

Childhood sexual abuse can happen anywhere children should feel safe and protected. In Maryland, we have seen cases arise in a wide range of institutions, including:

– Public and Private Schools: Abuse can occur in classrooms, locker rooms, or during extracurricular activities, often perpetrated by teachers, coaches, or staff.

– After-School Programs and Youth Organizations: Trusted mentors or volunteers may take advantage of their positions to harm children in clubs, camps, or sports leagues.

– Religious Schools and Programs: Faith-based settings, such as churches, synagogues, religious schools, or youth groups, can be manipulated by abusers who use authority and trust to silence victims.

– Doctors’ Offices and Hospitals: Medical professionals are in positions of trust and authority, and unfortunately, some have exploited this to abuse children during exams or treatments.

– Foster Care and Group Homes: Vulnerable children in foster care or group homes may be targeted by caregivers or older children in the system.

– Other Community Institutions: Libraries, community centers, and even online educational platforms can be settings where abuse occurs.

Would You Like a Free and Confidential Consultation to Seek Justice?

If you or someone you love is a victim of sexual abuse in any of these settings, please know you are not alone. The Yost Legal Group is helping sexual assault victims understand their rights. And guide you through every step of the legal process.

We offer free, confidential consultations, and you can reach us anytime at (800)-YOST-LAW, (800)-967-8529, or by text at 1-410-659-6800.

We will file a sexual abuse claim against the institution that allowed the sexual trauma. Contact our sexual abuse lawyers for guidance.

Your voice matters. You deserve justice, and we are committed to helping you find it.

Let us be your advocates—together, we can hold abusers and negligent institutions accountable and help you move forward with strength and support.

Clergy Sexual Abuse – Sexual Assault Lawyers – Child Abuse Lawyer

Childhood sexual abuse Lawyer – Sexual Abuse Lawsuit – Statutory Rape

[1] Whealin, J., & Barnett, E. (2018, August 20). Va.gov: Veterans Affairs. Child Sexual Abuse. https://www.ptsd.va.gov/professional/treat/type/sexual_abuse_child.asp

[2] Md. Code Ann., Crim. Law § 3-602 (West)

[3] Maryland Child Victims Act: Removing time limitations. Maryland Child Victims Act: Removing Time Limitations. (2025, June 22). https://www.peoples-law.org/maryland-child-victims-act-removing-time-limitations

[4] Whealin, J., & Barnett, E. (2018, August 20). Va.gov: Veterans Affairs. Child Sexual Abuse. https://www.ptsd.va.gov/professional/treat/type/sexual_abuse_child.asp

[5] Tips for Talking with Survivors of Sexual Assault. RAINN. (n.d.). https://rainn.org/articles/tips-talking-survivors-sexual-assault

[6] Common Victim Behaviors of Survivors of Sexual Abuse. Pennsylvania Coalition to Advance Respect. (n.d.). https://pcar.org/blog/common-victim-behaviors-survivors-sexual-abuse

[7] Tips for Talking with Survivors of Sexual Assault. RAINN. (n.d.). https://rainn.org/articles/tips-talking-survivors-sexual-assault

[8] Tips for Talking with Survivors of Sexual Assault. RAINN. (n.d.). https://rainn.org/articles/tips-talking-survivors-sexual-assault

Child Sexual Abuse Claims at Mount St. Joseph High School

Posted on March 25, 2025 by Loni Liss

Child sexual abuse is an unimaginable violation of trust that leaves lasting scars on survivors and their families.

In recent years, we’ve seen a growing number of allegations emerge, shedding light on the systemic failures that have allowed such abuse to persist in institutions meant to nurture and protect children.

One such troubling case involves allegations against Xaverian Brother Robert Flaherty, a former teacher at Mount St. Joseph High School in Baltimore, Maryland.

The case highlights the importance of accountability, survivor advocacy, and institutional reform in addressing the devastating impact of child sexual abuse.

Brother Robert Flaherty Case Highlights Need for Oversight

Brother Robert Flaherty, a member of the Xaverian Brothers religious order, has been accused of sexually abusing a minor in the mid-1980s.

The allegation, which was revealed in August 2024, has led to his removal from ministry pending an investigation by the Baltimore City police and the State’s Attorney’s Office.

While the allegation does not involve a current or former student of Mount St. Joseph High School, the case raises critical questions about the culture of silence and lack of oversight in institutions where such abuse has occurred.

Coming forward is an act of immense courage for survivors, and their voices must be met with unwavering support and action.

If you are a survivor of child sexual abuse at Mount St. Joseph High School in Baltimore, Maryland, contact The Yost Legal Group. Call our Maryland sex abuse lawyers at 1-800-967-8529 for a free and confidential consultation. A compassionate sexual abuse lawyer will listen to what happened and offer the help you need.

List of Priests and Brothers Accused of Child Sexual Assault

Abuse of a Minor Allegations and Institutional Response

Brother Robert Flaherty joined the Xaverian Brothers in 1979 and began teaching at Mount St. Joseph High School in 1980.

Over the years, he held teaching positions at several other schools across the country, including St. Xavier High School in Kentucky and St. John’s Preparatory School in Massachusetts.

Despite his long tenure in education, no prior allegations of abuse had been reported against him until 2024.

The Xaverian Brothers, in coordination with the State’s Attorney’s Office, have implemented protocols for handling allegations of abuse, including removing Brother Flaherty from ministry while the investigation is ongoing.

The Archdiocese of Baltimore has also reviewed its records and found no prior allegations against Brother Flaherty. However, as Sean Caine, the archdiocese’s communications director, pointed out, high-profile cases often encourage other survivors to come forward.

This case serves as a stark reminder that abuse is often hidden for decades, with survivors silenced by fear, shame, or institutional cover-ups.

The Yost Legal Group is urging anyone who was abused at Mount St. Joseph High School to come forward. If the abuse involves a church representative, a teacher, a guidance counselor, or an athletic coach, a sexual assault lawyer will fight to seek justice.

The Impact on Child Molestation Survivors and the Community

Child sexual abuse has profound and far-reaching consequences for survivors. Many experience long-term psychological, emotional, and physical effects, including:

– Depression

– Anxiety

– post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

– difficulty forming trusting relationships.

The trauma is often compounded by the betrayal of trust, particularly when the abuser is a respected figure within the community, such as a teacher, coach, or religious leader.

The allegations against Brother Flaherty have undoubtedly sparked feelings of shock, anger, and betrayal in the Mount St. Joseph High School community.

He was a teacher and an athletic coach credited with reviving the school’s ice hockey program. Such cases force communities to grapple with the painful reality that individuals they once admired have caused irreparable harm to others.

There are more likely many other sexual assault survivors out there suffering from the trauma of childhood sexual abuse.

Let a caring lawyer who works with molestation claims help fight for you. Your voice deserves to be heard. This was not your fault. We believe you.

Encouraging Survivors to Come Forward

One of the most critical steps in addressing child sexual abuse is creating an environment where survivors feel safe and supported in coming forward. The courage it takes to report abuse cannot be overstated, as survivors often face significant emotional and social barriers.

Institutions like the Xaverian Brothers and the Archdiocese of Baltimore must prioritize transparency, accountability, and survivor advocacy to ensure that all allegations are thoroughly investigated and addressed.

We encourage other survivors to break their silence.

When you work with The Yost Legal Group, we help survivors access counseling, legal support, and other resources to navigate the healing process.

How Institutions Can Break the Cycle of Silence on Abuse

The case of Brother Robert Flaherty underscores the urgent need for institutional reform to prevent future instances of abuse. This includes:

– implementing comprehensive background checks

– establishing clear reporting protocols

– providing ongoing training for staff and volunteers on recognizing and responding to signs of abuse.

Sadly, many institutions have not provided transparency and accountability. They have not ensured that allegations are handled seriously and that survivors receive the support they need.

The Xaverian Brothers and Mount St. Joseph High School must examine past practices and identify areas for improvement. While Brother Flaherty’s removal from ministry is a necessary step, it is only the beginning.

The institution must rebuild community trust by committing to protect children and holding wrongdoers accountable.

Seeking Justice Through Legal Action

Survivors of child sexual abuse often face significant barriers to seeking justice, including statutes of limitations that prevent them from filing lawsuits after a certain period.

However, recent legal reforms, such as Maryland’s Child Victims Act of 2023, have extended or eliminated these limitations.

Survivors can now come forward and hold their abusers accountable no matter how long ago the abuse happened. This legislative progress is critical in empowering survivors and ensuring that justice will be served.

Filing a Maryland sex abuse lawsuit against an abuser or the institution that enabled the abuse can be an important part of the healing process for survivors.

It allows sexual abuse survivors to reclaim their voices, seek accountability, and secure financial compensation for the harm they have endured.

Legal action also sends a powerful message that abuse will not be tolerated and that institutions must take their responsibility to protect children seriously.

The Role of Legal Advocates at The Yost Legal Group

For abuse survivors considering legal action, working with an experienced legal team can make all the difference. Firms like The Yost Legal Group handle cases of child sexual abuse and are dedicated to providing compassionate support and guidance throughout the legal process.

They understand the unique challenges survivors face and are committed to holding abusers and institutions accountable.

At The Yost Legal Group, survivors can expect a client-focused approach that prioritizes their well-being and seeks justice on their behalf.

The firm works on a contingency fee basis, meaning survivors pay nothing upfront and only owe legal fees if their case is successfully resolved.

This ensures that financial barriers do not prevent survivors from seeking the justice they deserve.

Rising Above Silence: Addressing Abuse in Institutions

The allegations against Brother Robert Flaherty at Mount St. Joseph High School are a painful reminder of the pervasive issue of child sexual abuse and the urgent need for action.

While no amount of legal action or institutional reform can undo the harm caused, it is possible to create a future where children are better protected, survivors are supported, and abusers are held accountable.

For survivors, coming forward is an act of courage that can inspire others to do the same. The emotional distress you have been carrying around as a victim of sexual abuse needs to heal.

By sharing their stories, they play a vital role in breaking the cycle of abuse and driving meaningful change.

Call 1-800-967-8529 to see if we can help you. Seek the justice and the financial compensation you deserve. File your Baltimore sex abuse claim if you are a victim of sexual assault in an institution.

As a society, we must stand with survivors, listen to their voices, and work together to create a safer, more just world for all children.

Church Sexual Abuse – Clergy Sexual Abuse – Doctor Sexual Assault

Child Molestation – Child Sexual Abuse Cases – Sexual Assault at School

Catholic High School of Baltimore Child Sexual Abuse Claims

Posted on March 11, 2025August 29, 2025 by Loni Liss

A Timeline of Sexual Abuse Scandals and Accountability

In recent years, the Catholic High School of Baltimore has faced intense scrutiny due to allegations of sexual abuse spanning decades. The revelations have shaken the community, highlighting systemic failures in protecting students and addressing complaints. This blog explores the timeline of events, the key figures involved, and the legal and social implications of these cases.

If you or someone you love is a survivor of child sexual abuse suffered in a Maryland educational or religious institution, know that you are not alone. The Yost Legal Group will provide the help, guidance, and support you need.

Our experienced and compassionate sexual abuse lawyers are dedicated to standing by survivors to fight for accountability and justice.

With the passage of Maryland’s Child Victims Act, there are no longer time limits to confront the wrongs of the past. Whether the abuse occurred in a school, Church, after-school program, or another institution, we will help you seek justice.

Contact The Yost Legal Group sexual assault lawyers today for a free and confidential consultation. Call us at (800)-YOST-LAW (800-967-8529) or text us at 1-410-659-6800.

A Timeline of Allegations and Complaints at Catholic High School of Baltimore

1960s-1980s: Early Allegations Ignored

The history of abuse allegations at Catholic High School of Baltimore dates back over 60 years. Survivors have come forward with stories of sexual abuse at the hands of priests, nuns, and teachers during this period. Despite complaints being raised, many were dismissed or buried by school administrators and the Archdiocese of Baltimore.

One of the earliest known cases involved Father Joseph Maskell, a priest accused of abusing students in the 1960s and 1970s. Maskell’s actions were brought to light in the Attorney General’s report published decades later, as detailed in WBAL-TV’s coverage. Survivors reported that Maskell preyed on vulnerable students, using his position of authority to silence them.

1990s: The Spotlight on Abuse Intensifies

The 1990s saw an increase in awareness of clergy abuse, with survivors beginning to speak out. However, systemic changes were slow, and many perpetrators remained in positions of power. During this time, the school and the archdiocese continued to face allegations of failing to act on complaints.

2000s: Legal Actions and Public Outcry

The early 2000s marked a turning point as survivors began filing lawsuits against the school and the archdiocese. The cases highlighted not only the abuse but also the institutional cover-ups that allowed it to persist.

Maryland’s Child Victims Act: A New Era of Justice for Survivors

The release of the Maryland Attorney General’s report in 2023 was a watershed moment. The report detailed decades of abuse by clergy members, including those associated with the Catholic High School of Baltimore. It also revealed the extent to which the Archdiocese of Baltimore failed to address complaints, often prioritizing the reputation of the Church over the safety of students.

In October 2023, Maryland took a groundbreaking step in advocating for survivors of childhood sexual abuse by passing the new Child Victims Act. This transformative legislation removes the statute of limitations for filing claims against abusers, providing a pathway to justice for individuals who have suffered in silence for years—even decades.

Under the new law, survivors of abuse can now come forward, regardless of how long ago the abuse occurred, to hold their abusers and the institutions that enabled them accountable.

This change is monumental for older adults who may have felt that time had run out on their opportunity to seek justice. Many survivors carry the weight of their trauma throughout their lives, often not feeling ready or able to confront their abusers until much later.

The removal of the statute of limitations recognizes the unique challenges survivors face and ensures that their voices can be heard whenever they are ready to come forward.

Key Figures and Allegations About Catholic High School of Baltimore

Father Joseph Maskell

One of the most notorious figures in the molestation of students scandal, Father Maskell, was accused of abusing multiple students during his tenure. Survivors have described how Maskell used his position to intimidate victims into silence.

Teachers and Staff

In addition to clergy members, several teachers and staff at Catholic High School of Baltimore have faced allegations of abuse. A Baltimore Sun article highlighted the case of a teacher accused of sexual solicitation in 2024.

Archdiocese Leadership

The Archdiocese of Baltimore has also been criticized for its role in covering up abuse allegations. Survivors have shared their stories in court, emphasizing the need for accountability at all levels of leadership. This was reported by NBC Washington.

Legal and Social Implications

Survivors’ Stories

The courage of survivors coming forward has been instrumental in exposing the extent of the abuse. Their testimonies have shed light on the long-term impact of abuse, including trauma, mental health challenges, and a loss of trust in institutions.

Legal Actions

The Attorney General’s report has paved the way for legal actions against Catholic High School of Baltimore. Survivors are seeking justice through lawsuits.

Community Response

The revelations have sparked outrage and calls for accountability within the Baltimore community. Parents, alumni, and advocacy groups have demanded transparency and systemic changes to ensure the safety of students.

Moving Forward: Ensuring Accountability and Justice

The Catholic High School of Baltimore scandal is a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and accountability in protecting vulnerable populations. As survivors continue to seek justice, institutions must prioritize their members’ safety and well-being over reputational concerns.

The courage of those who have come forward cannot be overstated. Their stories have not only exposed the failures of the past but also paved the way for a safer future.

For additional information, readers can explore the following articles:

WYPR: Baltimore City Catholic High School Removing Name of Nun from Auditorium

NBC Washington: Survivors of Church Sex Abuse Share Stories in Court

CNN: Baltimore Catholic Church Priest Abuse

Baltimore Sun: Baltimore County Teacher Sexual Solicitation Report

WBAL-TV: Church Abuse – Father Joseph Maskell Attorney General Report

Educational institutions everywhere must uphold their responsibility to protect and support the students they serve.

It’s Not Too Late: Seek Justice Under Maryland’s New Child Victims Act

If you were sexually abused or molested in a Maryland school, Church, after-school program, or any other institution, this law empowers you to take action. No matter how long ago the abuse occurred, you can now seek justice and accountability.

Our experienced child sexual abuse attorneys are here to support you every step of the way. Our team is deeply committed to providing compassionate, confidential, and professional representation for survivors of childhood sexual abuse.

Contact The Yost Legal Group today at 1-800-967-8529 for a free and confidential consultation. We understand the courage it takes to come forward and are here to listen, advocate, and fight for the justice you deserve. You are not alone; it is never too late to hold those accountable for their actions.

Your story matters. Your voice matters. And we are here to help you find the justice and healing you deserve. Reach out to The Yost Legal Group today—because it’s never too late to hold those responsible accountable.

Athlete Sexual Abuse Lawyer – Childhood Sexual Abuse Lawyer – Lawyer for Sexually Abused

Foster Care Sexual Abuse Lawyer – Clergy Sexual Abuse Lawyers – Catholic Church Sex Abuse Claims

How Grooming Happens & Ways to Protect Children

Posted on October 18, 2024 by Loni Liss

Grooming involves using persuasion and manipulation. If you’re experiencing the pain of child sexual abuse, it’s important to know that you’re not alone. There are many reasons why these experiences often go unnoticed or unspoken. Please consider reaching out to a trauma-informed therapist who can offer you a safe space to process your feelings and begin your healing journey.

It is important to remember that those who harm children are often individuals familiar with and trusted by them, like healthcare professionals, teachers, school bus drivers, or clergy members.

These individuals may not always resort to physical force. Instead, they might use methods such as play, deception, threats, or other forms of manipulation to involve children and keep them from speaking out.

Our focus should be on creating safer environments and supporting any child who may find themselves in such a difficult situation.

What is Grooming? Key Warning Signs Explained

Grooming is a deliberate and methodical process where an abuser builds trust with a child—and often their family—to facilitate sexual exploitation. It frequently begins with identifying susceptible children who may have certain vulnerabilities, such as low self-esteem, loneliness, or lack of attention at home.

It can include giving gifts or planning special activities to confuse the child. Abusers might also try to make inappropriate touching seem normal or isolate the child from family and friends.

This slowly breaks down any barriers the child might have against inappropriate behavior.

How Grooming Works and How to Recognize It

One of the most insidious aspects of grooming is how normal it can appear to outsiders. Abusers are adept at presenting themselves as caring figures in the child’s life—sometimes even acting as mentors or friends.

They may integrate themselves into community groups such as schools or sports teams where they have easy access to potential victims. By creating an environment that appears supportive and safe, they effectively mask their true intentions not only from their victims but also from those around them.

As grooming progresses, abusers often escalate their tactics in subtle ways that might not initially raise red flags. This could include introducing sexual content in conversations under the guise of education or jokingly testing boundaries with a physical touch that’s framed as accidental or playful.

These actions gradually desensitize a child to inappropriate behavior while simultaneously conditioning them to maintain secrecy about these interactions.

Child Abuse Statistics Every Parent Should Know

Retrospective research shows that 1 out of 6 boys will experience some form of sexual abuse before the age of 18.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2005)

Approximately 90% of children are abused by someone known to them, usually someone they know and trust.

Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Bureau of Justice Statistics, Sexual Assault of Young Children as Reported to Law Enforcement (2000)

African American children have almost twice the risk of sexual abuse than white children.

Sedlak. Supplementary Analyses of Race Differences in Child Maltreatment Rates in the NIS–4. (2010)

Only about 38% of child sexual abuse incidents/cases are identified, and even fewer are reported.

London, et al. Disclosure of child sexual abuse: What does the research tell us about the ways that children tell? (2003)

Male adult child sexual abuse victims are 2.6 times more likely to report substance use problems (65% versus 25% in the general population).

Simpson, T.L. & Miller, W.R. (2002)

80% of children who have been sexually abused have some PTSD symptoms (post-traumatic stress disorder).

Shanta R. Dube, et al. Long-Term Consequences of Childhood Sexual Abuse by Gender of Victim. (2005)

It’s Not Your Fault—Support for Survivors

Survivors of child sexual abuse often find themselves feeling isolated and withdrawn from the people around them. It’s important to know that there are allies who understand, believe in your story, and are here to support you on your healing journey.

It’s not uncommon for survivors to feel guilty or blame themselves for what happened. However, you must remember that the abuse was never your fault. Those in positions of authority, such as church leaders, failed to protect you, and holding them accountable is crucial.

Legally, you have rights and options. A child sexual abuse attorney can act as a powerful advocate, offering protection and legal recourse against abusers. If the abuse happened in a place like a school, church, or detention center, it’s essential to share your story.

A sexual assault lawyer works closely with sexual assault survivors, providing gentle care and support. If you experienced abuse under the age of 18 in an institution or government facility, we can help you seek justice.

You’re Not Alone—The Yost Legal Group Can Help

The Yost Legal Group is committed to helping you seek justice. Our child sexual abuse lawyers in Baltimore, Maryland, are here to help you file a lawsuit. The Child Victims Act of 2023 protects survivors. It allows them to come forward no matter how long ago the abuse occurred.

Were you raped in a juvenile jail in the state of Maryland? Did you suffer child sexual abuse in a school or camp program? Were you molested in an institution or hospital? We can help you file a civil case.

Remember, you deserve to be heard, to receive justice, and to secure financial compensation. Contact The Yost Legal Group at 800-967-8529 for compassionate and confidential legal assistance. We’re here to listen and stand with you when you’re ready to talk.