The decision from the court's presiding justice clears the way for the woman to seek compensation under a state law intended to help victims of crime, even though the conduct occurred inside a correctional setting where the officer held disciplinary authority over her.

The case centers on a former officer at the women's prison who was found guilty by a jury of engaging in sexual activity with people in his custody. The plaintiff, who is serving time at the facility, filed suit under Rhode Island's victim compensation statute, arguing that the officer's conduct caused her harm and that she is entitled to damages.

The officer's defense had argued that the civil claim should be barred, but the judge rejected that position, allowing the damages claim to move forward. The ruling does not resolve the merits of the case; it means the woman can continue her effort to obtain a financial judgment against the former officer.

The case highlights broader questions about accountability inside correctional facilities, where officers hold significant power over incarcerated people. Advocates for incarcerated women have long warned that sexual misconduct by staff often goes unreported or unpunished, and that victims face steep barriers to legal recourse.

The ruling also tests how far Rhode Island's victim compensation law reaches when the harm occurs behind bars. Legal observers say the decision could set a precedent for other incarcerated people seeking damages from correctional staff who abuse their authority.

The former officer's criminal conviction was secured by a jury earlier in the legal proceedings. The civil case now returns to the Superior Court for further proceedings on the damages claim.