New Birth Missionary Baptist Church
Sexual Abuse Lawsuit

Update: Pastor Eddie Long, Embroiled in Sex Scandal, Dies at 63

Jan. 15, 2017 – Eddie Long, the flamboyant megachurch pastor whose reputation was tarnished after former congregants accused him of sexual misconduct, has died at the age of 63 after battling cancer, according to NBC News [1.].

The sexual assault lawsuits were settled out of court back in 2011 for an undisclosed amount with Long never admitting any wrongdoing. Following the allegations, some New Birth congregation members changed their opinion of him, but many others continued to rally around the charismatic leader.

Eddie Long is survived by his wife, Vanessa Long, 4 children, and 3 grandchildren.

September 21, 2010 – Two Georgia men have filed a lawsuit against prominent Atlanta pastor Eddie Long, claiming that he coerced them into sex. According to the suits, Long used his position as spiritual authority and bishop to coerce young male members and employees of his New Birth Missionary Baptist Church into sex.

Plaintiff Anthony Flagg, 21, claims to have been taken by pastor Long on over a half-dozen overnight trips during the past several years.

According to the suit, “Long shared a bedroom and engaged in intimate sexual contact with plaintiff Flagg including kissing, massaging, masturbating of plaintiff Flagg by defendant Long and oral sexual contact.”

Long accompanied the other plaintiff, 20-year-old Maurice Murray Robinson, to Auckland, New Zealand in October 2008 for his 18th birthday and allegedly engaged in oral sex with him.

Long spokesman Art Franklin said Tuesday that “we categorically deny the allegations.”
“It is very unfortunate that someone has taken this course of action,” he said. “Our law firm will be able to respond once attorneys have had an opportunity to review the lawsuit.”

Ironically, Long has been a vocal crusader against homosexuality for years. A 2007 article in the Southern Poverty Law Center’s magazine called him “one of the most virulently homophobic black leaders in the religiously based anti-gay movement.”

The suits are seeking unspecified amounts of punitive damages from Long on various counts, ranging from negligence to breach of fiduciary duty.

Hundreds of Southern Baptist Church Ministers, Deacons Accused of Sexual Assault

February 11, 2019 – Nearly 400 Baptist Ministers, Deacons, and unpaid volunteers have faced allegations of sexual misconduct, and more than half have already been convicted, according to an investigation by the Houston Chronicle and San Antonio Express-News. The report also found that dozens of the church members who were accused of sex crimes were later allowed to return to their church.

Related Articles:

• Nationwide Methodist Sexual Abuse Lawsuit
• Southern Baptist Church Ministers Accused of Sexual Assault
• Nationwide Methodist Sexual Abuse Claim

FAQs

What are the main allegations in the New Birth Church sexual abuse lawsuit?

The main allegations in the New Birth Church sexual abuse lawsuit include claims that the church failed to protect victims from abuse, did not properly investigate allegations, and in some cases, may have attempted to cover up the abuse. The lawsuit may also allege negligence in hiring or supervising staff members who committed the abuse.

What compensation can be sought in a New Birth Church sexual abuse lawsuit?

Compensation in a New Birth Church sexual abuse lawsuit may include damages for medical and psychological treatment, pain and suffering, loss of income, and emotional distress. In some cases, punitive damages may also be sought if it is proven that the church acted with gross negligence or willful misconduct.

How does the statute of limitations affect filing a sexual abuse lawsuit against New Birth Church?

The statute of limitations for filing a sexual abuse lawsuit varies by state and depends on factors such as when the abuse occurred and when the survivor became aware of the harm. Some states have extended or eliminated the statute of limitations for sexual abuse cases, allowing survivors to file claims years after the abuse occurred.

Can survivors of abuse that occurred years ago file a lawsuit against New Birth Church?

Yes, survivors of abuse that occurred years ago may still be able to file a lawsuit against New Birth Church, especially in states that have extended or eliminated the statute of limitations for sexual abuse cases. It is important to consult with a lawyer to determine your eligibility.

See all related sexual misconduct lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.

Free Confidential Clergy Sexual Abuse Case Review

If you or a loved one is a survivor of sexual abuse, we can help. The Sexual Abuse Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP law firm includes some of the Nation’s leading sexual abuse lawyers.

Our Promise to You … We understand how emotionally scarring and life-altering sexual abuse can be. We also understand that many survivors are often hesitant to come forward with their case. However, at our law firm, we promise to keep all information that you provide completely confidential. Whether you are just interested in exploring your potential case or are ready to file a lawsuit immediately, we can help. Contact us today to discuss your legal rights and how we may be able to assist you in bringing the wrongdoers to justice.