August 8, 2024
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 8, 2024
Contact: Christine Buttigieg, Director of Strategic Communications
(518) 949-5621
Statement from Justice Center Acting Executive Director Maria Lisi-Murray
Devereux Staff Member Convicted of Abusing Person with Special Needs
“The Justice Center has been working closely with the Dutchess County District Attorney’s office and the NYS Police to ensure justice for a victim of physical abuse at Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health in Red Hook.
New York State has zero tolerance for abuse of any kind. The Justice Center works tirelessly to uphold the nation’s strongest protections in the country for individuals with special needs, and that includes the victim in this case. Oscar Sosa-Amaya’s conviction should send a strong message- that if you abuse vulnerable populations, the Justice Center and our law enforcement partners will stop you.
The Justice Center commends the person who reported this disturbing incident and thanks the NYS Police and Dutchess County District Attorney’s office for their partnership in this shared effort.”
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The Justice Center operates a toll-free hotline for people to report allegations of abuse or neglect, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Anyone who witnesses or suspects an act of abuse or neglect can make a report by calling 855-373-2122.
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 assists and cooperates with local District Attorneys to prosecute criminal offenses.