Laguna Hills, CA - Authorities in Orange County have arrested a 39-year-old man accused of sexually abusing a teenage boy while serving as a Bible study group leader. Cameron Taylor Heath was taken into custody last week in Laguna Hills and booked into the Orange County Jail on one count of committing a lewd and lascivious act with a minor under 14.
According to the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, investigators began examining Heath’s conduct in October. “During the follow-up investigation, it was discovered that several years earlier, the victim was sexually abused by the family’s Bible study group leader, Cameron Heath,” the department said in a statement.
Ties to Church and Youth Programs
Officials say Heath was well-known within several local church and youth organizations. He previously served as a member of Generations Church in Placentia and operated the Action Kids youth fitness center from 2010 to 2012.
Heath also led a faith-based Bible study called “The Branch” and founded “Deed and Truth Ministries,” a nonprofit organization based in San Diego that supports orphanages in Baja California.
Authorities Search for Potential Additional Victims
Given Heath’s extensive involvement with youth and faith-based programs, investigators believe there could be other victims who have not yet come forward.
Anyone with information, or anyone who believes they may have been affected, is urged to contact the Orange County Sheriff’s Department Special Victims Detail at 714-647-7419 or 714-647-7000. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Orange County Crime Stoppers at 855-TIP-OCCS.
Legal Options for Students Abused by Bible Study Leaders
Victims of sexual abuse connected to faith-based or youth programs often face deep emotional and legal challenges when coming forward. To help explain the options available under California law, our team sat down with experienced abuse lawyer Jason Amala to discuss how survivors—especially students abused by trusted religious leaders—can take action, hold offenders accountable, and seek compensation for the harm they endured.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: For survivors of abuse connected to church groups or community programs, what steps can they take under California law?
Jason Amala, Esq.: Victims often have both civil and criminal options. While police investigations are vital, survivors can also file civil lawsuits against the individual offender and, in some cases, the organization that failed to prevent the abuse. California law allows survivors to seek damages for emotional trauma and long-term harm.
Banville: Are there time limits for bringing forward a claim?
Amala: Yes, but California has some of the most survivor-friendly laws in the country. In many cases, there’s no time limit for crimes involving minors, and civil claims can often still be filed years later under the state’s statute of limitations reforms. It’s best for survivors to speak with an attorney who focuses on these cases to explore their specific situation.
Support for Survivors: Free Legal Consultation Available
Survivors of sexual abuse and their families do not have to face the recovery process alone. Our legal team stands ready to listen, guide, and fight for those harmed by trusted figures in religious or community settings. Anyone affected by sexual abuse is encouraged to contact us today for a free, confidential consultation to learn about available legal options and next steps for accountability.
