NEW YORK, NY – Allegations of sexual misconduct and abuse have surfaced against a former correctional officer, with two former inmates accusing him of coercing them into performing sexual acts. The women, who have now filed lawsuits against the state of New York, claim that the officer, Pedro Naudet, exploited his position to prey on them while they were incarcerated.
Yaritza Colon, one of the accusers, vividly recalls the alleged abuse she endured at the hands of Naudet during her time at the Taconic Correctional Facility in 2018. She asserts that he repeatedly forced her into compromising situations, at times demanding she expose herself before allowing her to leave her cell. Colon, seeking anonymity, has chosen not to reveal her face due to the sensitivity of the issue.
Another woman, who has requested to remain unnamed due to the graphic nature of her allegations, claims that Naudet raped her on three separate occasions at the now-closed Bayview Correctional Facility between 2007 and 2008. She describes a terrifying pattern where Naudet would enter her cell and command her to submit, leaving her with no choice but to comply.
Despite these serious allegations, Naudet has not faced criminal charges, nor have there been administrative findings of sexual misconduct against him. His attorney has denied any inappropriate behavior, emphasizing that Naudet did not engage in any non-consensual acts with inmates.
The plaintiffs argue that the state of New York bears responsibility for the alleged abuse, citing a pervasive culture of sexual misconduct in the state’s women’s prisons. They believe the state was aware of the ongoing issues and failed to take adequate measures to protect vulnerable inmates.
In response to the escalating legal battle, the Department of Corrections reassigned Naudet from a women’s to a men’s facility in 2022. This move followed an unsuccessful attempt to terminate his employment for allegedly contacting former inmates and misleading investigators. An arbitrator blocked Naudet’s firing, and he later returned to work, receiving over $270,000 in back pay.
Attorney Adam Slater, representing six women in total, argues that under no circumstances can an incarcerated individual consent to sexual activity with a correctional officer, defining such acts as rape. The corrections department maintains a zero-tolerance policy for sexual abuse but cites union protections as a barrier to dismissing Naudet.
Despite facing multiple suspensions for various infractions, Naudet remains employed, though his attorney has indicated that he plans to retire by the end of the year. Colon, reflecting on the situation, expressed her disdain for Naudet, suggesting his family should be ashamed of his alleged actions.
The union representing correctional officers has not yet commented on the ongoing situation, leaving questions about accountability and systemic issues within New York’s correctional facilities.