Bentonville, AR - A Northwest Arkansas father has filed a new lawsuit naming over 50 defendants—including a former First Baptist Church Bentonville (FBC Bentonville) youth pastor convicted of child sex abuse—alleging that multiple Baptist organizations failed to protect minors from harm.
Father Files Suit on Behalf of Child Victim
Filed on January 12, the civil suit accuses former youth pastor Keenan Hord, FBC Bentonville, the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC), the Northwest Arkansas Baptist Convention, and the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) of negligence. According to court documents, FBC Bentonville is a member church within all three conventions listed.
The father brought the action on behalf of his child, who was among Hord’s victims. The complaint also lists 50 unnamed defendants, including 25 church officials such as pastors and deacons, and 25 insurance carrier companies.
Allegations of Grooming and Institutional Negligence at Baptist Church
The lawsuit states that church leaders “knew or should have known” that Hord posed a danger to minors but failed to act. It describes how Hord allegedly engaged in grooming behavior soon after joining FBC Bentonville as youth pastor in 2017, including excessive communication with minors and forming unusually close relationships.
The plaintiff’s child, who participated in the church’s “Studio 412 Youth” ministry, was reportedly approached by Hord at a skating rink around 2021—a meeting that led to the family joining the church. The suit claims that after recruitment, Hord manipulated and sexually assaulted the child.
Convicted Pastor Serving 60-Year Sentence
Hord, now 35, was arrested in 2022 and charged with multiple counts of sexual assault. He pleaded guilty in 2023 to 13 counts of sexual assault and is currently serving a 60-year prison sentence. The lawsuit contends that FBC Bentonville continued allowing Hord “unfettered access to minors” despite warning signs.
Arkansas Attorney Discusses Legal Paths for Families After Youth Pastor Sex Abuse Scandals
In the aftermath of growing reports of child sexual abuse within church environments, we sat down with Arkansas sexual abuse lawyer Joshua Gillespie to discuss the legal options available to families affected by misconduct involving youth pastors. Gillespie explained how survivors can protect their rights, seek accountability from both perpetrators and church institutions, and take the first steps toward rebuilding their lives through the legal system.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: Many families find it overwhelming to come forward in these cases. What initial steps can a survivor or parent take when abuse is suspected or confirmed?
Joshua Gillespie, Esq.: The first step is always safety and support—ensuring the victim is protected and has access to counseling. From a legal standpoint, survivors or their guardians should document everything they can remember and contact an attorney familiar with abuse litigation as soon as possible. These cases often involve not only the abuser but also institutions that may have ignored warning signs.
Banville: This new lawsuit names several Baptist organizations. How does that impact the legal process?
Gillespie: When multiple entities are named, it broadens the scope of accountability. The court can examine whether leadership structures, hiring practices, or supervision failures played a role in allowing the abuse to continue. It’s common in these cases to see claims based on negligent supervision or failure to report.
Banville: For families who are unsure about filing, what would you tell them?
Gillespie: Speaking up can be incredibly difficult, but it’s often the only way to prevent further harm and hold powerful organizations accountable. Victims have rights under Arkansas law, and there are legal pathways to recover damages for the trauma they’ve endured. No one should ever feel they have to face that system alone.
Standing Up for Survivors Starts Here
Families affected by sexual abuse deserve answers, accountability, and support. If you or your child were harmed by a youth pastor or another church leader, our legal team is ready to help. Contact us today for a free and confidential consultation to discuss your rights and the next steps toward justice.
