Local soldiers file new claims against U.S. Army, over sex abuse at JBLM

Twenty men have filed federal tort claims against the U. S. Army concerning sexual abuse allegations against Dr. Michael Stockin, a former physician at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, who received a 13-year prison sentence for his crimes. Stockin's guilty plea has prompted an influx of calls from potential victims seeking justice, with attorney Christine Dunn representing 42 individuals while believing many more have yet to come forward.

The case is one of the largest sex abuse scandals in U. S. military history, highlighting significant systemic failures in dealing with sexual violence, especially against male survivors. Dunn's firm has seen a doubling of clients seeking accountability since the initial tort claim was filed in 2023. Protect Our Defenders emphasizes the military's complicity and negligence in allowing such abuse to continue unchecked.

The new federal claims signal a long, complicated legal battle ahead, with hopes that the resolution of the criminal trial will expedite the civil proceedings. As the military continues to investigate the claims, the case raises urgent questions about the treatment of sexual assault victims within the armed forces. The ongoing legal efforts aim to ensure that those harmed receive the accountability and compensation they deserve.