Content Warning: This page discusses allegations of child sexual abuse that some readers may find upsetting. If you or someone you know is currently experiencing abuse or is in immediate danger, contact local law enforcement first by calling 911. This page is intended to provide information about pending litigation and funding options, not legal or medical advice.
For confidential support, the National Sexual Assault Hotline is available 24/7 at 800-656-4673, and the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline is available 24/7 at 800-422-4453.
The lawsuits involving alleged sexual abuse at the MacLaren Youth Correctional Facility continue to move forward in federal court. With more than 70 consolidated cases and the first trial scheduled for November 2026, survivors may still be facing a lengthy legal process.
If you’re part of this litigation, MacLaren Youth Correctional Facility lawsuit funding may help you manage everyday expenses while your case moves toward trial.
What is the MacLaren Youth Correctional Facility Lawsuit?
Former residents of the MacLaren Youth Correctional Facility in Woodburn, Oregon, have come forward with allegations that they were sexually abused while in state custody. The claims allege sexual abuse of minors during medical exams and other institutional contact over multiple years.
The Oregon Youth Authority (OYA) operated the MacLaren Youth Correctional Facility during the period of the alleged abuse. OYA also faces allegations that it failed to prevent the abuse or respond appropriately despite repeated warning signs.
Dr. Edward Gary Edwards, MacLaren’s longtime pediatrician and later its chief medical officer, is the central named individual in the case. Edwards worked at the facility from 1977 until at least 2008 and died in February 2025, just shortly before the first lawsuit was filed.
Susan Baumgartner, who worked as a MacLaren gym teacher from 2001 to 2002, also faces unproven sexual abuse allegations in the litigation.
Attorney Peter Janci and the law firm Crew Janci LLP represent many of the plaintiffs. Crew Janci represents more than 62 survivors in claims against Edwards specifically, within a broader docket of more than 70 consolidated cases against OYA and Edwards, as of the firm’s most recent public filing.
Is the MacLaren Lawsuit Still Active?
Yes. The MacLaren Youth Correctional Facility litigation is active and moving through the U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon. Since March 2025, Crew Janci LLP has filed six lawsuits that have grown into more than 70 consolidated cases against OYA and Dr. Edwards.
The court has scheduled the first trial for November 2026, and additional survivors may still be able to pursue claims with the help of an attorney if they have not already done so.
Legal Landscape
Understanding where the case is being heard, what the claims involve, and how funding fits into the process can help you make informed decisions. Here’s a breakdown of the key legal details behind the MacLaren litigation.
Jurisdiction and Venue
The consolidated lawsuits against OYA and Dr. Edward Gary Edwards are moving through the U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon. Tribeca provides Oregon lawsuit funding to plaintiffs already part of the MacLaren litigation or preparing to file.
You don’t have to live in Oregon to qualify. Tribeca also provides Washington lawsuit funding for plaintiffs who now reside in Washington but were formerly held at MacLaren. Eligibility depends on your case and your attorney, and not where you currently live.
Case Type
The litigation centers on allegations of sexual abuse, not a general negligence or government liability claim. Tribeca’s sexual abuse lawsuit funding program covers pre-settlement funding for plaintiffs in the MacLaren Youth Correctional Facility litigation.
Litigation Timeline
- Crew Janci LLP filed the first lawsuit against Dr. Edwards on March 13, 2025, on behalf of ten survivors.
- More plaintiffs came forward over the following months, with a July 24, 2025 filing increasing the claims against Edwards to 51.
- A sixth lawsuit filed in September 2025 added Susan Baumgartner as a named defendant and moved the litigation into federal court, with Crew Janci by then representing 62 survivors of Edwards specifically.
- In December 2025, the Marion County District Attorney’s Office released a grand jury report identifying staff sexual abuse of youth as its most significant finding.
- A federal court hearing has since set the first trial date for November 2026.
How Tribeca’s Funding Applies to This Case
Lawsuits involving institutional sexual abuse often take months or years to resolve. During that time, everyday expenses continue. Tribeca’s pre-settlement funding helps you cover everyday expenses like rent, utilities, and medical bills while your case moves toward trial.
Tribeca structures funding as a non-recourse purchase of an equitable lien in your future settlement (not a loan), so if you don’t win or settle, you owe Tribeca nothing. Tribeca applies the same funding terms to MacLaren plaintiffs whether they live in Oregon or Washington, and regardless of which law firm represents them.
Who Qualifies for Funding in the MacLaren Lawsuit?
Tribeca requires funding applicants to be part of the MacLaren Youth Correctional Facility litigation or preparing to join it, represented by an attorney, and have a case that is still active and unresolved.
You don’t need perfect finances or a strong credit history to qualify. Tribeca does not base funding decisions on your credit score, employment status, or income. Once you apply, the team works directly with your attorney to review the case and determine eligibility.
If you’re unsure whether you qualify, it’s worth asking. Speaking with Tribeca doesn’t affect your legal rights and doesn’t obligate you to accept funding.
How to Apply for Pre-Settlement Funding
Applying for MacLaren litigation funding is free and doesn’t require a credit check. Most people complete the process in a single sitting, either online or by phone. Here’s how the process works:
- Complete a funding application. Call Tribeca Lawsuit Loans at 866-388-2288, or fill out the online application and share a few basic details about your case and your attorney.
- Case review. With your permission, Tribeca contacts your attorney to review the status and strength of your claim.
- Receive a funding decision. You’ll receive an offer outlining the funding amount and terms if Tribeca approves your application.
- Get your funds. Funding is often available within 24 to 48 hours after you accept the agreement.