Image courtesy of Broward Sheriff’s Office
Arrest and Allegations
Jeffrey Doresca, a former psychiatric hospital technician at Fort Lauderdale Behavioral Health Center in Oakland Park, Florida, faces charges of six counts of sexual battery of a vulnerable patient under his care.
Details of the Incident
The Broward Sheriff’s Office reports that Doresca, 34, was arrested after being accused of sexual battery inside the behavioral health unit of the facility. Authorities reported that the victim, a woman in her 30s battling schizophrenia and depression, was under the influence of prescribed medication at the time, leaving her physically incapacitated and vulnerable. She was unable to resist or defend herself. A witness, the victim’s roommate, reported seeing the assault. The attack reportedly occurred in February 2025.
Read more details here.
Ongoing Investigation into Jeffrey Doresca Sexual Assault
Following an investigation by the BSO Special Victims Unit, detectives gathered enough evidence to arrest Doresca. Law enforcement officials believe Doresca may have assaulted additional patients and encourage anyone with information to contact them through “BSO’s Special Victims Unit at 954-321-4243 or Broward Crime Stoppers at 954-493-TIPS (8477)”, according to CBS News.
Can I File a Lawsuit Against Fort Lauderdale Behavioral Health Center?
Doresca is no longer employed at Fort Lauderdale Behavioral Health Center. However, this case raises serious concerns about the facility’s hiring practices, supervision, and protection protocols for psychiatric patients. Individuals in these settings are often at their most vulnerable and deserve the highest standard of care.
Andreozzi + Foote is currently representing survivors of Jeffrey Doresca and has gathered information to suggest that Fort Lauderdale Behavioral Health Center employees may have known about Doresca’s misconduct and failed to protect his victims. This means that the health center may be liable in a civil case for the damages that Doresca’s victims suffered.
Recoverable Damages in Sexual Abuse Civil Case
Survivors of sexual abuse may be entitled to recover damages through a civil lawsuit. These damages can include compensation for:
- Physical injuries
- Emotional trauma
- Pain and suffering
- Medical expenses
- Therapy costs
- Lost wages
In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish defendants who engaged in gross negligence or egregious misconduct.
Pursuing a civil claim not only provides survivors with financial support for their recovery but also holds institutions accountable and drives systemic change.
Our Commitment To Survivors
Andreozzi + Foote remains committed to helping all survivors seek justice. We recognize the deep betrayal survivors experience when those entrusted with their care commit acts of abuse.
Our firm is dedicated to holding institutions accountable when their negligence or lack of proper safeguards enables abuse.
We represent survivors of sexual abuse in civil cases nationwide and work to secure not only life-changing results but also meaningful institutional change.
If you or a loved one were a victim of Jeffrey Doresca or any other healthcare professional, we encourage you to reach out for a confidential consultation.
📞 Call: (866) 311-8640
📩 Email: info@vca.law
You are not alone. Our team is here to listen, support, and help you explore your legal options in a safe and confidential environment.
