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An Albany County woman has been awarded $270,000 in damages by a jury, marking another milestone in the resolution of cases filed under New York’s landmark Child Victims Act, the Times Union reported yesterday.
The survivor, Sandy Domalewicz, alleged that she was abused decades ago by her brother-in-law, Paul J. Madelone, a businessman and longtime community figure in Albany. Although Madelone has denied the allegations and is appealing the verdict, the jury’s decision underscores the powerful impact of the Child Victims Act, which opened the door for survivors to seek justice no matter how much time has passed.
Domalewicz, now 68, said she pursued the case after the passage of the Child Victims Act gave her an opportunity she never thought she would have. “All the pain and the hard work and preparing for trial over the last few years — for the jury to rule in my favor, I feel this is the start of justice to prevail long and hard,” she said.
Her case went to trial in July, and the jury found Madelone liable for damages related to pain, suffering, and medical expenses. The award is smaller compared to multi-million-dollar institutional settlements, but still represents meaningful accountability.
At Survivors Rights, we typically focus on institutional sexual abuse; that is, cases involving schools, churches, rideshare companies, hospitals, and other powerful organizations that fail to protect the vulnerable. But we are shining a light on this Albany case because it demonstrates an important truth: when survivors courageously step forward, even decades later, justice is possible.
While this was not a multi-million-dollar verdict, a six-figure settlement can provide meaningful resources for a survivor’s recovery, including therapy, wellness, and other forms of self-care. It also validates the survivor’s voice and sends a message that silence no longer protects those who cause harm.
Domalewicz herself made it clear that the trial was about more than money. “I spoke the truth, not only for myself, but for others. And it was the right thing to do,” she said.
The Child Victims Act has given thousands of survivors across New York the chance to be heard in court, many for the first time. Cases like this one prove that even when justice is delayed, it does not have to be denied.
Are you or a loved one a survivor of sexual abuse? Learn more about your rights and options with our Institutional Sexual Abuse Lawsuit Guide. You can also request a free case review by filling out the form below.
