Professional Negligence Law Reporter

The Doe sisters, who were eight and six, were placed in an unlicensed foster home with Nathanial Pierson. Over the course of approximately ten years, Pierson allegedly abused the Does physically, emotionally, and sexually. Now adults, they suffer from psychological and emotional issues related to their alleged experience.

The Does sued the state of Washington, alleging it failed to conduct adequate background checks, failed to monitor the foster home, and ignored clear signs of abuse. Additionally, suit alleged Pierson had a known history of sexual abuse allegations and a documented pattern of domestic violence and drug use. The plaintiffs also claimed that the state ignored multiple court orders requiring confirmation that the Pierson home was safe.

The parties settled for $18 million.

Citation: Does v. State of Wash., Undisclosed Dkt. No. (Wash. Confidential Ct. 2024).

Plaintiff counsel: AAJ member Darrell Cochran, Seattle; and AAJ members Ian Bauer and Mike McNeil, both of Tacoma, Wash.