A Former Counselor Faces Serious Charges for Alleged Abuse

Edmund Rivers, 68, Accused of Sexually Assaulting Young Patients

Charges and Allegations

• Multiple Counts of Criminal Sexual Assault
• Incidents Reportedly Occurred Between 1996 and 2004
• Victims: Boys Aged 7 to 14

Locations of Alleged Abuse

• Patient Rooms
• Seclusion Room
• Bathroom

Alleged Threats and Manipulation

• Threatened Victims with Sedation
• Exploited Position of Power
• Used Past Traumas to Control and Manipulate

Civil Lawsuit Filed

• Attorney Martin Gould Representing About 100 Former Patients
• Victims Claimed Abuse While in Hospital's Care

Victim Testimony

• Abuse Happened Almost Every Other Day
• Other Staff Members Might Have Been Involved or Turned a Blind Eye

Legal Outcome

• Judge Ordered Rivers to Remain in Custody Until Next Court Date

Broader Implications

• Raises Important Questions About Safety and Accountability in Mental Health Facilities