Sexual Assault by Law Enforcement Lawyers in Garden City, NY 

Breaking the Silence: Standing Up to Police Sexual Assault 

It’s hard to even think about—someone you trusted to protect you crossing the line in the worst possible way. Sexual assault by a police officer doesn’t just shatter your sense of safety; it flips your world upside down. You’re left with a storm of emotions—anger, fear, betrayal—and maybe you’re wondering, “Who will believe me? Who can I trust now?” 

What happened to you wasn’t your fault. You have every right to speak up, to demand accountability, and to fight for justice. A skilled civil rights lawyer can help you take back control and ensure your voice is heard. The Garden City civil rights lawyers at Horn Wright, LLP, are here to help you do just that. You don’t have to face this alone.

Betrayed by a Badge: Were You Violated by Law Enforcement? 

When someone puts on a badge, they’re supposed to uphold the law and protect the public. But what happens when that same person abuses their power? When a police officer uses their authority to harm instead of help, it’s a betrayal unlike any other. And unfortunately, it happens far too often. 

You may have experienced: 

• Coercion into sexual acts through threats or intimidation. 
• Unwanted touching during an arrest or search. 
• Sexual harassment while in custody. 

Sound familiar? It’s not just misconduct—it’s an abuse of power, plain and simple. And it can leave you feeling powerless, embarrassed, and even ashamed. But don’t let that silence you. Your voice matters. 

Know Your Rights: You Deserve Justice After Police Sexual Assault 

Right now, you might feel like the system is stacked against you. After all, police officers have a lot of power, and the idea of taking them on can feel impossible. But you’ve got rights—powerful ones. 

In New York, you’re protected by laws that allow you to: 

• File a complaint with internal affairs or an oversight agency. 
• Pursue a civil lawsuit against the officer and their department. 
• Seek justice and compensation for the harm you’ve suffered. 

New York law offers additional protections under the New York Civil Rights Law and the New York State Human Rights Law, which specifically safeguard against abuses of power, discrimination, and violations of personal rights. This isn’t just about getting a payout (though you deserve that too). It’s about making sure what happened to you doesn’t happen to someone else. 

Taking the First Step: How to File a Claim in Garden City, NY 

Filing a claim for sexual assault by law enforcement can feel overwhelming, but it’s a vital step toward justice. The process might seem complex, but with the right help, you can get through it. 

Here’s how it typically works: 

1. Speak with an attorney: A good lawyer will help you understand your options and guide you through every step. 
2. File a formal complaint: Reporting the misconduct to the police department or oversight agency is an important part of building your case. 
3. Gather evidence: Documentation, witness statements, and medical records can strengthen your claim. 
4. Pursue your lawsuit: Your lawyer will handle the legal details, so you can focus on healing. 

It’s not easy to stand up to someone in uniform, but every step you take brings you closer to justice. 

Exposing Corruption: Holding Police Accountable for Sexual Assault 

When an officer commits sexual assault, it’s not just an attack on you—it’s a betrayal of the entire community. Police are supposed to uphold the law, not break it. And yet, some departments look the other way, creating a culture where misconduct thrives. 

By coming forward, you’re not just seeking justice for yourself—you’re shining a light on a broken system. Accountability means: 

• Punishing the individual officer for their actions. 
• Exposing negligence or corruption within the department. 
• Advocating for changes that protect future victims. 

It’s a big fight, but it’s one worth having. Because when police are held accountable, it sends a powerful message: no one is above the law. 

Your Questions Answered: What You Need to Know 

If you’ve never been through something like this before, you probably have a lot of questions. Here are a few answers to the most common ones: 

What qualifies as police sexual assault? 

 Any unwanted sexual act or advance by a police officer, especially when they use their authority to intimidate or coerce you. 

Can I really sue a police department? 

Yes. You can sue the officer who harmed you and the department if they failed to properly supervise or address misconduct. A constitutional rights lawyer can help you navigate the legal complexities involved in suing a government entity. 

How long do I have to file a claim? 

In New York, you generally have one year and 90 days to file a notice of claim against a government entity, as outlined in the New York General Municipal Law Section 50-e. Don’t wait—deadlines matter. 

What You Deserve: Compensation for Police Sexual Assault Victims 

After everything you’ve been through, you deserve more than an apology. You deserve compensation for the harm you’ve suffered, including: 

• Medical expenses for physical injuries or mental health care. 
• Lost wages if the trauma has kept you from working. 
• Emotional pain and suffering caused by the assault. 

Every case is different, but a skilled discrimination attorney will fight to get you the full amount you’re entitled to. Because this isn’t just about money—it’s about helping you rebuild your life. 

Time is Running Out: Don’t Miss Your Window for Justice 

New York’s statute of limitations for claims against law enforcement is strict. You’ve got one year and 90 days to take action under New York CPLR Section 214. That’s not a lot of time when you’re already dealing with trauma. But acting quickly is crucial to preserving your right to sue. 

Don’t let the clock run out. The sooner you take action, the stronger your case will be. 

Abused by the System: Police Sexual Assault Breaks the Public Trust 

When a police officer commits sexual assault, it’s not just a crime against the victim—it’s a betrayal of the badge. Officers hold immense power in our society. And when they abuse that power, they don’t just harm individuals; they destroy trust in the entire justice system. 

Cases like yours often highlight the need for equal protection legal advocacy to ensure that everyone, regardless of who they are, has access to justice. 

We’ve Got Your Back: Fighting for Justice in Garden City 

At Horn Wright, LLP, we know how hard it is to come forward after police sexual assault. But you don’t have to do it alone. We’re here to listen, to fight, and to help you reclaim your power. As a dedicated civil rights lawyer, we’ll work tirelessly to hold those in power accountable. When you’re ready to take action, hire one of the best firms in America to fight for your rights. Justice is within reach, and we’ll be with you every step of the way.