Earlier this week, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was hit with seven lawsuits in Arizona for its alleged role in covering up sexual abuse among Boy Scout troops within the state. Arizona has an end-of-year deadline for adult victims to sue.
Each of the seven lawsuits represents a different male victim, and they all allege that although members of the church-sponsored Boy Scout troops informed church bishops about abuse they suffered, the church officials encouraged them to stay quiet while the church conducted an investigation. But attorneys say church officials never notified authorities about the abuse, and those accused were allowed to continue volunteering with Boy Scout troops.
Hurley McKenna & Mertz was quoted on the matter in the Associated Press, saying the church “must be held accountable in order to bring healing and closure to Mormon victims of childhood sexual abuse.”
The Mormon Church was the largest supporter of the Boy Scouts organization until January 1, 2020, when it ended its partnership amidst launching its own worldwide youth program. Many speculate the split was due to the Boy Scouts’ decisions to admit openly gay and transgender members and volunteers, which occurred throughout the 2010s.
We Can Help You Move Forward From LDS Abuse
If you experienced sexual abuse at the hands of the Mormon church, we can help you seek justice and gain closure. Hurley McKenna & Mertz expert attorneys have represented thousands of sexual abuse victims and can answer your questions with a confidential and completely free consultation.
