Perimeter Healthcare Psychiatric Facility Abuse

Gillispie Law Firm Files Lawsuit Against Perimeter Healthcare, Alleging Systemic Negligence and Abuse

Gillispie Law Firm has filed a lawsuit against Perimeter Healthcare, a company operating private behavioral hospitals across Arkansas. The lawsuit alleges systemic negligence in safeguarding patients, detailing multiple instances of sexual abuse by an employee at one of the company’s psychiatric facilities. According to the lawsuit, Perimeter Healthcare was aware of the employee’s misconduct but failed to take appropriate action to prevent or address it.

If you or someone you know has been impacted by similar actions, this legal case highlights the importance of holding institutions accountable. Learning about these issues can be a first step toward understanding your rights and finding support.

Understanding the Scope of Abuse

Sexual abuse is a profound violation, leaving lasting emotional and psychological scars. For those placed in behavioral health facilities like Perimeter Healthcare, the expectation is one of safety and healing—not harm. Sadly, the lawsuit reveals systemic shortcomings that allowed abuse to occur. From inadequate staffing and supervision to insufficient training on trauma-informed care, the failures at these facilities are deeply troubling.

Arkansas, unfortunately, has one of the highest rates of child sexual abuse reports in the nation, with 254 cases per 100,000 children reported in 2020—more than triple the national rate. The state also ranks second in the U.S. for registered sex offenders, with 640 offenders per 100,000 residents. These statistics underscore the urgent need for stronger protections in environments like behavioral health facilities.

When survivors disclose abuse, they often face incredible barriers, from power imbalances with staff to feelings of shame or fear of not being believed. Experts believe staff-on-patient abuse is grossly underreported in official statistics, making legal actions like this one essential to uncovering the truth and advocating for justice.

Empowering Survivors of Sexual Abuse

Survivors of abuse often grapple with feelings of isolation, guilt, or confusion. It’s important to recognize that abuse is never the survivor’s fault. Speaking up about such experiences requires immense courage. The survivor represented in this lawsuit demonstrates incredible bravery, giving a voice to those who may still feel silenced.

Gillispie Law Firm has a long-standing commitment to advocating for survivors. We understand the emotional and psychological toll that comes with such experiences, and our approach prioritizes confidentiality, emotional safety, and accessibility to resources. Our work is centered on helping survivors seek justice while supporting their journey toward healing.

The Need for Accountability and Systemic Change

The allegations against Perimeter Healthcare highlight widespread issues within the system. A Care Quality Commission report found that, in just three months, over 1,100 sexual incidents were reported in psychiatric facilities, including 29 alleged rapes. Of these, two-thirds involved patients as the affected party. This case emphasizes how crucial it is for institutions to implement strict safeguards to protect vulnerable individuals.

Holding Perimeter Healthcare accountable is about more than addressing the past—it’s about preventing future harm. Advocacy for survivors not only seeks justice but also drives necessary reforms. This includes better staff training, stronger supervision policies, and trauma-informed care that puts patient safety at the forefront.

What Justice Can Look Like

For survivors, pursuing justice is often a complex and deeply personal process. An experienced sexual abuse lawyer can help navigate the emotional and legal challenges involved. This might include:

• Investigating the circumstances of the abuse.
• Filing claims on behalf of survivors.
• Advocating for accountability from negligent institutions.
• Connecting survivors with resources for emotional and psychological support.

The process can feel overwhelming, but it is designed to empower survivors to reclaim their voices and advocate for their rights in a safe and supportive environment.

Creating Awareness and Promoting Healing

Awareness is a critical step in addressing abuse. It sheds light on hidden issues, encourages survivors to seek support, and pushes for societal responsibility in protecting vulnerable individuals. Communities must prioritize trauma-informed care and create safe environments where survivors can heal.

Organizations like Child Protective Services, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, and RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) offer invaluable resources for survivors and their families. By working together to educate, support, and advocate, we can build a safer future for all.

Explore how we’ve investigated similar cases like Lords Ranch.

How Gillispie Law Firm Stands With Survivors

At Gillispie Law Firm, we are deeply committed to advocating for survivors of institutional abuse. We bring years of experience and compassion to every case, ensuring that survivors feel supported every step of the way. We have a proven track record in handling cases involving residential treatment facilities, like our work with Lords Ranch.

Our goal is to help survivors seek justice and begin their journey of healing. If you or someone you love has been affected, know that you are not alone. This lawsuit is a step toward creating change, protecting future generations, and supporting those who have endured unimaginable harm.

Together, We Can Make a Difference

The lawsuit against Perimeter Healthcare is about more than individual justice—it’s about societal responsibility. It is a reminder of the importance of speaking out, supporting survivors, and holding institutions accountable. Change begins when we listen, learn, and act with compassion and resolve. Let’s work together to protect vulnerable individuals and create a world where healing is possible, and justice is served.