Diana* is a survivor of domestic violence – Shortly after learning that she was pregnant, her boyfriend got jealous at a party and threw her against a wall. After realizing that his abuse could kill her and her baby, Diana left the relationship. A few years later, she saw an emergency broadcast about police looking for a man suspected of killing his wife and two kids. A picture flashed on TV, it was him. In shock, Diana called the police, shared her experience, and later testified at his trial.

Casa Cornelia filed for a U Visa on Diana’s behalf to protect her from deportation, and helped resolve her legal status. Diana is now working and caring for her child, free from fear of violence or deportation.

Yolanda* reported a medical doctor’s sexual abuse in 2014. During his time at the clinic, the doctor took advantage of his position of power and molested, raped, and took private pictures of his patients. Yolanda went to the free clinic because of abdominal pain, and after an unusual check-up, she questioned why he was touching her and taking pictures of her on his private cellphone.

Police found several photos of the doctor’s female patients’ genitals, breasts and buttocks on his phone. As the case gained public attention, more victims came forward, including at least two others who were undocumented and were clients of Casa Cornelia. In 2015, the physician pleaded guilty to eight counts of sexual penetration of an unconscious person, three counts of sexual battery and one count of child pornography. Casa Cornelia filed for a U Visa on behalf of Yolanda to protect her from deportation.

* Clients’ names have been changed to protect confidentiality.