Ormond Beach, FL — Authorities confirmed Tuesday that Riverbend Academy and Riverbend Community Church, both located at 2080 W. Granada Blvd, are under investigation following reports of abuse and inappropriate behavior.
Police spokeswoman Pauline Dulang said detectives are working to interview anyone who may have information about the allegations or who may have been a victim. The reports being examined go back as far as the early 2000s. Investigators are also working to determine if there are any victims at present.
Active Investigation Into Sexual Abuse Allegations at FL Baptist Church
Dulang declined to release additional details, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation. She emphasized that all reports submitted to the department will be treated with confidentiality and handled with sensitivity.
“We take these allegations very seriously and are committed to supporting potential victims and protecting this community, all while conducting a thorough and impartial investigation,” Chief Jesse Godfrey said Tuesday in a statement.
Community Response to Abuse Allegations
Detectives ask that anyone with information come forward. They are urging individuals who may have been impacted to reach out directly to Detective Marianne Mele at Marianne.Mele@ormondbeach.org.
Authorities say the focus at this stage is gathering as much information as possible to determine the scope and timeline of incidents under review.
Florida Attorney Explains Legal Options for Victims of Church-Related Sexual Abuse
As police investigate allegations of abuse tied to Riverbend Academy and Riverbend Community Church in Ormond Beach, questions are growing about what victims can do to hold both individuals and institutions accountable. To provide clarity, we spoke with Florida sexual abuse lawyer Michael Haggard, who shared how survivors can seek justice through both criminal investigations and civil legal action.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: For those who are learning about this investigation and may have been directly affected, what options do victims have from a legal standpoint?
Michael Haggard, Esq.: Victims can come forward not only to police but also through the civil justice system. Civil claims can hold institutions accountable when an employee or leader causes harm, especially when the organization failed to act on warning signs. That avenue allows survivors to seek compensation for trauma, counseling, and other damages.
Banville: Some victims may be hesitant to speak due to fear or past experiences. What protections are in place for them now?
Haggard: Florida courts and law enforcement take these cases seriously. Survivors who come forward can expect confidentiality protections. In addition, the statute of limitations has been adjusted in recent years in Florida to give victims of child sexual abuse more time to file, recognizing that trauma can delay disclosure.
Banville: If this investigation confirms wrongdoing, who could be held responsible beyond the individual offender?
Haggard: When abuse involves an institution, liability may extend to the organization itself if negligence is proven—such as ignoring complaints, failing to supervise, or allowing a dangerous environment to persist. This accountability is key because it can help create safer policies while also providing a measure of justice to survivors.
Support and Legal Guidance Available
Victims of sexual abuse and their families do not have to face this process alone. Our team is committed to listening, protecting your rights, and holding institutions accountable when harm is caused. If you or someone you love has been affected by abuse involving a church or school, contact us today for a free and confidential consultation to discuss the options available.
