Nine additional former cadets at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy have come forward with accusations of the institution's failure to prevent and address sexual violence on campus. These claims, filed recently, add to the initial complaints made by 13 former cadets seeking damages of $10 million each. The total number of plaintiffs now stands at 22, including 20 women and two men.
Many of the new plaintiffs were inspired to speak out after learning about the initial complaints. Attorney Christine Dunn, representing the group, believes that there are more survivors who have yet to come forward. The incidents cited in the complaints date back to the 1980s, with some as recent as 2017.
The complaints detail instances of sexual assault occurring in dorm rooms, with some cadets feeling unsafe due to Academy policies that prevented them from locking their doors. One former cadet described sleeping in fear with a tightly cinched sleeping bag around her neck to prevent assault.
The plaintiffs accuse the Coast Guard of negligence in creating an environment that condoned and concealed sexual harassment and assault. One woman, who was assaulted twice during her time at the Academy, has since been diagnosed with depression and PTSD related to Military Sexual Trauma.
The Coast Guard has stated that federal law prohibits them from discussing the complaints but emphasized their commitment to improving prevention, victim support, and accountability. The revelations of mishandled cases from a past investigation have led to calls for reforms and accountability.
Government and congressional investigations are ongoing to address the mishandling of misconduct at the academy. The Coast Guard has pledged to change and improve the culture at the academy and within the service in response to these allegations.
The recent filing is the first step in a process to potentially sue the federal government. After an administrative complaint is submitted, the agency has six months or longer to investigate before deciding to settle or deny the claim. If denied, the plaintiff can proceed to file a federal lawsuit.
