Children’s Village Staff Member Sentenced for Sexually Abusing Individual in Care
Statement from Justice Center Acting Executive Director Maria Lisi-Murray
“The Justice Center has been working closely with the Ardsley and Dobbs Ferry Police Departments as well as the Westchester County District Attorney’s office on an investigation that has brought justice to a youth who was victimized by a staff member at The Children’s Village. Rebecca Jean-Baptiste has been sentenced for sexually abusing a minor in her care.
Ms. Jean-Baptiste’s crime is a gross exploitation of power and a violation of her moral responsibility to keep those in her care safe. Let this sentence send a message to abusers of vulnerable individuals: we will do everything we can to ensure you are held accountable for your actions.
Our collaborative teams took swift action to ensure justice was served in this case. Thank you to the Ardsley and Dobbs Ferry Police and Westchester County District Attorney’s office for their partnership in our shared mission.”
Full press release from Westchester County DA
###
About the Justice Center
The Justice Center operates a toll-free hotline for people to report allegations of abuse, neglect, and significant incidents 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Anyone who witnesses or suspects an act of abuse or neglect has been committed can make a report. Because the Justice Center is not a first responder, callers are directed to call 9-1-1 if there is an emergency that requires an immediate medical or police response.
The Justice Center has authority to investigate all reports of abuse and neglect in covered facilities and programs, pursue administrative sanctions against staff found responsible for misconduct, and its Special Prosecutor/Inspector General works with local District Attorneys to prosecute criminal offenses involving allegations of abuse or neglect. The Justice Center notifies local district attorneys of all cases of abuse and neglect that occur in their jurisdiction.
Justice Center advocates provide guidance and information to victims, their families, personal representatives, and guardians about the reporting and investigation process, offer support during criminal court proceedings, and are available to accompany victims during interviews and court appearances.
