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Attorney for Baptist Child Molestation and Sexual Abuse Victims

Update: Southern Baptist Church Under Investigation Following Sex Abuse Report

August 15, 2022 – Leaders of the Southern Baptist Convention have announced that the church is under investigation for reported clergy sexual abuse by the U.S. Department of Justice.

The investigation follows a third-party inquiry by Guidepost Solutions, which in May released its findings in a nearly 300-page report detailing a pattern of Southern Baptist Convention leaders dismissing reports of abuse and survivors’ calls for change.

The report also included an allegation of sexual assault against a former Southern Baptist Convention president.

The Southern Baptist Convention has been plagued by scandal stemming from leaders’ mishandling of sexual abuse cases since the Houston Chronicle and San Antonio Express-News released an investigative series called “Abuse of Faith” in 2019.

What’s the problem?

The sexual abuse of young people by Baptist priests and other clergies can cause lifelong injuries and trauma to its victims. Sexual abuse of any kind committed by anyone is a crime.

The victim may be entitled to compensation from the assailant and/or from those who helped cover up the abuse.

Many Baptists are surprised to learn that the sexual abuse of children is not just a problem associated with the Catholic church. According to an Associated Press article, three insurers of Baptist churches received more than 260 reports of children being sexually abused by ministers and other church officials in a single year.

Since 1998, about 380 Southern Baptist leaders and volunteers have faced allegations of sexual misconduct, according to a sweeping investigation by two Texas newspapers.

This number compares to 228 “credible” accusations against Catholic clergy in a year, according to records produced by the Catholic church.

Abusers and pedophiles depend upon fear and intimidation to conceal their crimes. They convince victims that they won’t be believed if they come forward to report the abuse or they threaten retaliation.

According to CNN, the organization found that in the past 20 years, more than 700 victims have been abused, with some urged to have abortions and forgive their abusers. [1]

Victims must report sexual abuse and molestation when it occurs to help break the vicious cycle.

FAQs

What evidence is needed to support a sexual abuse lawsuit?

Evidence can include personal testimony, medical and therapy records, witness statements, documentation of any complaints made to church authorities, and any other relevant records or evidence.

Can victims remain anonymous in a sexual abuse lawsuit?

Yes, victims can often remain anonymous in sexual abuse lawsuits to protect their privacy and identity. Consult with an attorney to discuss how to proceed while maintaining confidentiality.

Can a sexual abuse lawsuit lead to criminal charges?

While a civil lawsuit seeks financial compensation, evidence uncovered during the case can lead to criminal investigations and charges against the abuser. Victims should report the abuse to law enforcement.

What should victims do if they are currently experiencing abuse?

If victims are currently experiencing abuse, they should seek immediate help by contacting local law enforcement, child protective services, or a trusted organization that supports abuse survivors.

Related:

• Clergy Sexual Harassment Attorney
• Nationwide Evangelical Sexual Harassment Case
• Dozens of St. Louis Jesuits Accused of Sex Harassment
• Jehovah’s Witnesses to Pay $35 Million in Sexual Harassment Case

See all sexual abuse cases from S&C, LLP.

Do I have a Baptist Clergy Sex Abuse Lawsuit?

The Sexual Abuse Litigation Group at our law firm Schmidt & Clark, LLP is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focus on the representation of plaintiffs in Baptist sexual abuse & molestation lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.

Free Baptist Sexual Abuse Case Evaluation: If you or a loved one has been sexually abused, molested, or otherwise harmed by a Baptist minister or other clergy members, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to compensation by filing a lawsuit and we can help.

Reference:

1. https://edition.cnn.com/2019/02/11/us/southern-baptist-abuse/index.html