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Largest US orphanage for migrant children is affected by sexual abuse …

Theo

Buildings housing juveniles and operations on the grounds of Southwest Key Campbell, a home for children separated from their parents, are seen June 28, 2018 in Phoenix.

The Justice Department has filed a lawsuit alleging that employees of Southwest Key Programs Inc., the largest residential provider for unaccompanied migrant children in the United States, sexually abused and molested children in their care for at least eight years. The lawsuit details shocking crimes, including rape, sexual harassment and threats of silence.

Southwest Key Programs Inc. operates 29 migrant children’s homes in Texas, Arizona and California with a total capacity of over 6,300 children. The organization has received over $3 billion in government contracts from 2015 to 2023.

The lawsuit reveals disturbing incidents, such as the sexual abuse of three girls, ages 5, 8 and 15, at different homes by a staff member. The children were threatened with violence if they reported the abuse, and some staff members allegedly knew about the misconduct but did nothing.

Health Secretary Xavier Becerra raised serious concerns about Southwest Key’s practices and emphasized a zero-tolerance policy toward all forms of abuse and harassment. The lawsuit came amid ongoing problems in overseeing the care of unaccompanied migrant children.

Attorneys for the children involved in the case condemned the allegations as deeply disturbing and called for drastic measures to ensure the safety of the children in Southwest Key facilities.

Southwest Key Programs Inc. has disputed its portrayal of its care for children and is reviewing the complaint. The organization’s facilities have been at the center of immigration controversies because of its focus on providing quality care for children.

The Justice Department’s lawsuit sheds light on a troubling situation that requires a prompt and thorough investigation to protect the vulnerable children in the care of Southwest Key Programs Inc.

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