A former Oregon Youth Authority (OYA) employee, Cherie MacDougall, was recently charged with serious misconduct after allegedly engaging in sexual acts with an incarcerated youth and later providing him contraband, including vaping devices and firearms. This type of despicable betrayal is not only a crime, but it also exposes vulnerable youth to lasting harm and trauma.

For the youth involved, the criminal charges against the staff member do not provide direct compensation or remedies. However, there may be powerful civil claims available. These can include:

Negligence – OYA and its staff have a duty to keep youth safe. Failing to supervise and allowing staff to provide contraband is a breach of that duty.
Civil Rights Violations (§1983 claims) – Youth in state custody have constitutional rights to safety and protection. If OYA staff acted with deliberate indifference to those rights, a civil rights lawsuit may be possible.
Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress – Providing guns and contraband, or engaging in sexual misconduct, can cause severe emotional and psychological harm.
Institutional Liability – If OYA knew or should have known about the staff member’s boundary violations and failed to act, the agency itself may be held responsible.

At Ross Law, we have successfully represented youth who were abused, exploited, or put in danger while in OYA custody. We understand how devastating these situations are for families, and we fight to hold the State and its employees accountable. A civil case can not only provide compensation for the harm suffered, but also push institutions to make real changes so other youth are not placed at risk.

If your child was harmed while in OYA custody, you do not have to face this alone. We can help you explore your legal options and pursue justice.

👉 If your child was harmed in OYA custody, call Ross Law today at (503) 224-1658 for a free and confidential consultation.