Survivors of Dozier School and Okeechobee School recount decades of abuse as state lawmakers formally apologize and offer restitution.
Fla. News Network: In a groundbreaking move, the state of Florida has formally apologized for the physical and sexual abuse suffered by hundreds of children at two state-run reform schools and is now offering restitution to victims. The deadline to apply for compensation was December 31st, and so far, at least 800 applications have been received by the state. Archaeological researchers from the University of South Florida have documented at least 55 burials on the Dozier campus, though the actual death toll may be higher. Many graves were unmarked, and records were poorly maintained or destroyed.
Hundreds of people who say they suffered physical or sexual abuse at two state-run reform schools in Florida are in line to receive tens of thousands of dollars in restitution from the state. This comes after Florida lawmakers formally apologized for the horrors endured by children more than 50 years ago at these institutions. The deadline to apply for restitution was December 31st, and so far, at least 800 applications have been received by the state.