The Jehovah’s Witnesses charged with Allowing Sexual Abuse of 11 Year Old
It is a reminder to us all that no group or institution can be seen to be beyond suspicion when it comes to the abuse of children in our society. We constantly hear people say that this would never happen in their community, but the truth is, it does. This time, the spotlight has now been focused on the Australian branch of the Jehovah’s Witnesses.
This week, the ABC’s reporters, Adam Harvey, Mary Fallon and Lucy Carter reported on the story of Theresa Claire and her daughter Amy Whitby, who alleges abuse by a member of the Jehovah’s Witnesses congregation they attended when she was only 11 years old. Despite reporting the abuse to elders, Theresa was never believed, and no action was ever taken to consider the complaint.
It was later found that the alleged perpetrator had been convicted of the abuse of an 8-year-old boy. The religious group denies knowing of such a conviction and denies responsibility.
Mrs Whitby is now taking legal action against the Jehovah’s Witnesses congregation and Head Office for breach of duty of care, failing to protect her, and allowing sexual abuse to occur.
Whether it be the Jehovah’s Witnesses or some other institution, we see these stories over and over again, and prosecutors need to be strong, determined and committed in taking them on.
At Koffels Solicitors & Barristers, we are well-known in the legal industry for being the strongest and most successful litigators on behalf of victims of Institutional Child Sexual Abuse. Our reputation precedes us for the consistently high settlement figures against some of the most tenacious of defendants. Ross Koffel is held in the highest regard amongst his peers for the unique and innovative approach he has adopted in prosecuting matters of abuse.
We are the firm that people come to when others have fallen short.
If you have been the victim of abuse within the community of the Jehovah’s Witnesses or any other institution, please contact us. We will listen and help however we can. It costs nothing to call and ask, and it may mean a great deal to you in being able to turn a corner in your life.
If you have witnessed such institutional abusive behaviour, tell us. It may be just the key to helping someone seek justice. Bad things happen when good people do nothing. It’s time to speak out, and you can speak with confidence and be part of the fight for good.
You can help “deliver them from evil.”
