Sexual Abuse Investigation Archive

Intensity around Johnny Hunt lawsuit escalates

September 24, 2024

New witnesses surface for upcoming trial for the Johnny Hunt vs. SBC/EC/Guidepost Solutions lawsuit.

Study: Many churches use background checks. What about abuse training?

July 18, 2024

While a majority of Southern Baptist congregations use background checks, just over a third are trained in reporting sexual abuse, and even fewer have training on how to deal with sexual abuse survivors.

Mississippi church addresses allegations of past sexual abuse

July 16, 2024

Broadmoor Baptist Church, Madison, Mississippi, released a statement July 14 that discloses allegations of past sexual abuse by a former youth pastor.

Abuse task force releases report, recommendations on ‘future of reform’ in SBC

June 5, 2024

The Abuse Reform Implementation Task Force has released its report with recommendations that it will share a report with messengers during the 2024 SBC Annual Meeting in Indianapolis (June 11–12).

SBC abuse reform efforts energized by latest announcement

February 21, 2024

“Given the current legal and financial challenges facing the SBC and [EC], the formation of a new independent organization is the only viable path that allows progress toward abuse reform to continue unencumbered.” —Josh Wester, ARITF chair

Settlement reached in abuse lawsuit against Pressler, SBC

December 29, 2023

A confidential settlement has been reached with prejudice in a sexual abuse lawsuit against retired Texas Judge Paul Pressler, a key figure in the Southern Baptist Convention’s conservative resurgence.

Legal strategy topic of special-called SBC Exec Comm meeting

November 16, 2023

“Today, we had a second zoom Executive Committee meeting in the span of two weeks, which is indicative of the commitment of your EC trustees to fulfill their responsibilities on behalf of the SBC.” —EC chair Philip Robertson

ARITF releases Ministry Check update, website ‘still a work in progress’

August 31, 2023

In addition to vetting potential names and background information for the website, the task force noted they “worked to onboard new members, review ongoing initiatives and identify priorities for the year ahead.”