Psychologist Known as ‘Big Foot’ Allegedly Raped Teen Dozens of Times at N.Y. Youth Detention Center: Complaint

Psychologist Accused of Raping Teen at Youth Detention Center

A harrowing case has emerged from a New York youth detention center, where a psychologist, known as ‘Big Foot,’ allegedly raped a teenager multiple times. According to a complaint filed by the victim, who is now 21 years old, the abuse began when he was just 17 years old at the Brookwood Youth Facility.

The accused psychologist, Maya Hayes, is facing a staggering 65 criminal sex abuse charges after being indicted by a Columbia County grand jury in 2024. The indictment alleges that Hayes abused eight victims between the ages of 16 and 18 from 2020 to 2022. The severity of the allegations has shocked many, with Hayes pleading not guilty and awaiting trial in July.

Reports indicate that the victim was subjected to abuse on numerous occasions by Hayes, with the complaint detailing disturbing acts of manipulation and exploitation. The victim claims that Hayes would obscure her actions by blocking the view into her office, using pictures on the windows, to conceal the abuse. The plaintiff further alleges that the abuse continued unchecked until Hayes was eventually terminated in December 2022.

The lawsuit also names 23 current and former employees of the Brookwood Youth Facility as defendants, accusing them of neglecting their duty to prevent such abuse from occurring. It is deeply troubling to learn that staff members allegedly not only turned a blind eye to the abuse but also made jokes about the situation, further exacerbating the trauma experienced by the victim.

The victim, represented by legal counsel Evan Brustein and Marion Conde da Silveira, is seeking recompense for the severe emotional distress endured, in addition to punitive damages and legal fees incurred during the litigation process. The case highlights the importance of stringent safeguards and oversight within such facilities to protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation and harm.

In light of this distressing revelation, it is imperative to recognise the profound impact of sexual abuse and offer support to survivors. If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual assault, resources such as the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) and the Crisis Text Line at 741-741 are available for immediate assistance and guidance.

As the case unfolds and the trial approaches, the focus remains on seeking justice for the victim and holding accountable those responsible for such egregious acts of abuse. The story serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for vigilance and transparency in institutions tasked with the care and rehabilitation of vulnerable individuals.

The gravity of the allegations underscores the critical role of safeguarding protocols and ethical conduct in professional settings, particularly when dealing with at-risk populations. The pursuit of justice and accountability in cases of abuse is paramount to safeguarding the well-being and rights of all individuals, ensuring that such atrocities are not repeated.