Federal Probation Officer Sexually Abuses Five Women
A 22-year veteran federal probation officer faces indictment and suit for sexually abusing five women under his supervision, from late 2006 until retiring in mid-2009.
Gaillynn Monica Abbott filed a July 20, 2010, federal lawsuit against her federal probation officer, Mark John Walker, for sexually abusing her. Walker ignored Abbott’s illegal drug possession and gave her advance notice of urinalysis screens as long as she submitted to his sexual demands, according to the complaint.
“She became a fugitive from the law to avoid having to testify against him,” said Abbott’s attorney, David Moule. “She was fearful.” Walker’s conduct kept Abbott addicted to drugs, contends Moule. Stealing to support her habit netted an eight month prison sentence, during which her depression and bipolar disorder worsened, according to Moule.
At a July 21, 2010, plea hearing, the government unsealed a federal indictment, charging Walker with: aggravated sexual abuse against three women; non-aggravated sexual abuse against two other women; threatening a witness; lying to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); and falsifying documents to obstruct an investigation into his conduct.
Walker pleaded not guilty and United States District Court Judge John V. Acosta released him pending trial. Just two days later, however, Walker was arrested for violating his release agreement. On July 26, Walker admitted to the violation and Acosta ordered him to remain in custody until the case is resolved.
Sources: The Oregonian, Statesman Journal.
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