The Boston man accusing a Biddeford, Maine, police officer of sexually abusing him as a child is speaking publicly about the abuse, and addressing the Biddeford City Council for the first time.
Weeks ago, Matt Lauzon started posting about his alleged abuse on Facebook. Those posts prompted other alleged victims to come forward, and speak at a city council meeting last month.
"As painful as it is [to talk publicly], it's worth it," said Lauzon.
His lawyer, Walt McKee, told necn last week that there are at least twelve other victims with similar stories to Lauzon's, and he is working on a civil case.
The Maine Attorney General is conducting an investigation, and anyone with information is asked to contact the AG's office or Biddeford Police. Lauzon said he wants to see the FBI investigate instead.
"I really want to make sure a fair investigation happens, and I don't believe that's been the case so far," said Lauzon. "I don't believe this was taken seriously until I started pushing."
Lauzon said he reported the crime initially in the fall, and was told it would be forwarded to the Attorney General's office. He said he waited six months for the AG's office to follow up with him.
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Over the phone, Biddeford Mayor Alan Casavant said, "We are very upset by the allegations and we want to have justice served. We are adhering to state law, and have to be careful in terms of what we can say. The public may view that as inaction, but it's been in the best interest of moving forward."
Lauzon is planning to address the Biddeford City Council meeting Tuesday night and ask for the Police Chief and Deputy Chief to be suspended.
"I find it hard to believe that nobody at the police department had awareness of what was going on," he said.
Lauzon has met with Governor LePage's staff and expects to meet with the Governor in the coming days to discuss ways to protect victims of sexual abuse, and prosecute those responsible.
