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A grand jury has indicted a former employee of Graceworks Lutheran Services, Anthony W. Alcorn, 69, of New Carlisle, on charges stemming from an alleged sexual assault involving a woman with developmental disabilities. Alcorn faces one count each of rape and gross sexual imposition, along with two counts of kidnapping, according to the Dayton Daily News.
The incident reportedly unfolded on September 16 in the 400 block of Burkhardt Avenue. A man who observed suspicious activity in an alley behind his home discovered Alcorn sexually assaulting the woman in the back of a van. The witness, joined by a friend, immediately intervened by confronting Alcorn and seizing his keys to prevent him from leaving the scene. Law enforcement was contacted, and Dayton police officers arrested Alcorn upon their arrival.
At the time of the assault, Alcorn was transporting the woman and another man, both of whom have developmental disabilities and are non-verbal, back to their group home. Prosecutor Mat Heck Jr. remarked on the severity of the situation, emphasizing the vulnerability of the victim. “If not for the quick thinking and cooperation of the witness, this defendant would certainly never have been caught,” Heck said, describing the acts as deeply disturbing.
Alcorn, who was employed as a direct support professional at Graceworks Enhanced Living for eight years, was terminated immediately following his arrest. Graceworks issued a public statement expressing outrage and vowing full cooperation with law enforcement to ensure justice is served.
Currently held in the Montgomery County Jail on a $500,000 bond, Alcorn is scheduled to be arraigned on Tuesday.
When a trusted caregiver betrays the vulnerable individuals they are meant to protect, the impact reverberates far beyond the immediate victim. Families of those affected often face uncertainty about how to hold perpetrators and institutions accountable. Ohio sexual abuse lawyer John Bey shares valuable perspectives on the legal steps families can take to seek accountability and support their loved ones in the case of a driver sexually assaulting a victim with developmental disabilities.
Editor Darla Medina: In a case where a driver for individuals with developmental disabilities is accused of sexual assault, what legal options do families of the victims have?
Attorney John Bey: Families can explore both criminal and civil actions. On the criminal side, the prosecution will handle the case, seeking to hold the perpetrator accountable under the law. However, families may also file a civil lawsuit against not just the individual accused, but potentially the employer, such as the retirement home or care provider, if negligence can be proven.
Medina: What might constitute negligence in this type of situation?
Bey: Negligence could include failing to properly screen or supervise the employee, ignoring past complaints or warning signs, or not having adequate safeguards in place to protect vulnerable individuals. Employers are responsible for ensuring the safety of those in their care, so any lapse in oversight can open the door to liability.
Medina: How important is it for families to act quickly in situations like this?
Bey: Time is always a critical factor. Evidence needs to be preserved, witnesses need to be interviewed, and statutory deadlines vary depending on the type of claim. Families should consult an attorney as soon as possible to ensure their rights are protected and to start building a strong case.
Medina: What kind of compensation might families pursue in a civil lawsuit?
Bey: Compensation can cover a range of damages, including medical expenses, therapy costs, emotional distress, and in some cases, punitive damages meant to hold the responsible parties accountable and prevent similar incidents in the future.
If you or someone you care about has been affected by abuse in a care facility, know that you don’t have to face this fight alone. Legal options are available to hold perpetrators and negligent institutions accountable. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you take the first step toward justice and healing.
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