A new legal window is now open in New York City, giving survivors of sexual and gender-motivated violence another opportunity to file civil lawsuits against alleged abusers and the institutions that may have enabled them.
The law reopens the city’s Gender-Motivated Violence Act lookback window for 18 months. It applies to claims that occurred before Jan. 9, 2022.
For Carmine Megaro, the law could be life-changing.
“I feel like I deserve justice,” Megaro said. “I’ve lost so much because of what happened as a result of the diocese that I’m ready for justice.”
Megaro first came to News 12 last summer, alleging that he was 19 when a priest he trusted sexually assaulted him. When he later reported the allegation to police and tried to file a case civilly, he was told the statute of limitations had expired.
“The idea of statute of limitations is just absurd, especially on sex crimes,” Megaro said. “Especially on sex crimes where it takes the victim time to face the reality of what happened.”
The bill was sponsored by City Councilmember Selvena Brooks-Powers. It clarifies that survivors can sue not only individuals, but also institutions that created environments where abuse occurred.
“What we found is there have been institutions that have created an environment that made these offenses possible,” Brooks-Powers said. “Just hearing some of the testimonies and stories from survivors have been really heartbreaking to see and to hear and to understand the long-term damage that it’s done. They deserve to be able to hold everyone that played a role accountable.”
That distinction is important for Megaro.
The Diocese of Brooklyn found his claims against Father Philip Pizzo credible. However, until now, Megaro did not have a clear civil path forward.
A law firm is now reviewing his case.
“I’m extremely grateful because I never thought I would even tell my story — nonetheless be found credible, nonetheless be believed and heard,” Megaro said.
Megaro says he hopes other survivors will take advantage of the new window.
“Tell your story,” Megaro said. “Don’t be afraid. It’s not your fault,” he said. “You could be encouraging other victims that were affected in the same way you were.”
The 18-month window is now open.