CHARLESTON -- A former inmate is suing the West Virginia Division of Corrections after she claims she was sexually harassed, assaulted and abused during her incarceration.
C.O. Dowdy, a correctional officer, and an unnamed individual were also named as defendants in the suit.
Chante Cook was incarcerated at the Anthony Correctional Center in Greenbrier County from 2005 until 2009, according to a complaint filed Feb. 18 in Kanawha Circuit Court.
Cook claims Dowdy exposed her to a substantial risk of serious injury by sexually harassing, abusing and assaulting her.
The West Virginia Division of Corrections knew or should have known that Dowdy failed to comply with the standards required of a correctional officer, according to the suit.
Cook claims she suffered anxiety; humiliation; annoyance and inconvenience; invasion of privacy; emotional distress; pain and suffering; mental anguish; loss of her ability to enjoy life; future medical and pharmaceutical expenses; and other damages.
Cook is seeking compensatory and punitive damages. She is being represented by Matthew J. Woelfel.
Kanawha Circuit Court case number: 11-C-270
Former inmate sues state for sexual misconduct
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