The Trump administration has taken steps to dismiss a civil lawsuit against Southwest Key Programs, the largest provider of housing for migrant children, amid allegations of sexual abuse and harassment of unaccompanied minors. The lawsuit, filed last year during the Biden administration, detailed offenses dating back to 2015, as the provider accumulated billions in contracts. Following the government’s decision to relocate all unaccompanied children to other shelters, the Department of Justice has dropped the lawsuit against Southwest Key.

Southwest Key Programs welcomed the dismissal, denying the allegations and emphasizing no settlement or payment was required. However, recent furloughs of approximately 5,000 employees were announced due to federal funding freezes and placement orders. The lawsuit described disturbing incidents of sexual abuse by employees, with children being threatened not to report the abuse. Leecia Welch, an attorney representing unaccompanied children, expressed shock at the government’s response and hoped for legal recourse and support for victims.

Despite the dismissal, the National Center for Youth Law is seeking to intervene on behalf of those affected by the abuse, potentially prolonging the legal proceedings. Several employees have already faced criminal charges related to the allegations. The civil lawsuit aimed to secure a jury trial and monetary damages for the victims, highlighting the severity of the situation and the ongoing pursuit of justice for the impacted individuals.