“The Justice Center has been working closely with NYS Police and the Columbia County District Attorney’s office on an investigation that has resulted in the arrest of Maya Hayes, a clinician at the Brookwood Secure Center for Youth.  Hayes is charged with three counts of rape and 63 counts of criminal sexual act.

These predatorial crimes serve as an unfortunate reminder that our state’s most vulnerable populations are particularly susceptible to abuse. The people of New York, and especially our youth communities, deserve better.

In creating the Justice Center, New York established the strongest protections in the country for individuals with special needs, including those receiving services at youth detention centers. We must ensure justice is served for these young victims, and we will use every method within our power to hold Ms. Hayes accountable for her actions.

Thank you to the NYS Police and Columbia County District Attorney’s office for their partnership in our shared mission.”

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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 works with local District Attorneys to prosecute criminal offenses.