Piedmont, MO – In a developing situation, ABM Ministries’ Lighthouse Christian Academy in Piedmont, Missouri, has ceased operations following severe abuse allegations. This move comes in the aftermath of criminal charges brought against owners Larry Musgrave Jr., Carmen Musgrave, and teacher Caleb Sandoval.
Boarding School Abuse Allegations and Charges
Larry Musgrave Jr. and Carmen Musgrave face first-degree kidnapping charges for reportedly confining a student, while Caleb Sandoval is charged with child abuse for allegedly harming a 15-year-old during a boxing incident. Caleb is the son of the school’s director, Julio Sandoval, the former dean of Agape Boarding School, also closed due to a history of abuse.
The defendants are scheduled for court hearings next month, while the broader implications of this case continue to reverberate throughout the community.
To learn more about the charges against the boarding school owners:
ABM Ministries Missouri Christian Boarding School Owners Arrested for Kidnapping
To learn more about the charges against staffer Caleb Sandoval:
ABM Ministries Lighthouse Christian Academy Employee, Caleb Sandoval, Charged With Child Abuse
ABM Boarding School Closure and Staff Terminated
ABM Ministries officially announced the closure on March 6th, 2024, with all staff members being terminated. In a letter to the Missouri Department of Social Services, ABM Ministries confirmed the closure, stating, “As of March 6th @ 5:00pm, 2024 ABM is officially closed. All staff have also been dismissed.” The agency’s spokeswoman, Baylee Watts, revealed that an internal inquiry is underway to assess the handling of previous complaints made to the Child Abuse & Neglect Hotline regarding the facility.
State Agency Investigating Boarding School’s Failure to Respond to Ongoing Child Abuse
The Department of Social Services is actively investigating the handling of complaints related to the facility through the Child Abuse & Neglect Hotline. Former students have voiced long-standing concerns that went unaddressed despite being reported over the years. As the situation unfolds, the state agency’s investigation aims to shed light on the adequacy of its response to prior allegations.
This unfolding situation underscores the importance of swift and thorough responses to allegations of abuse within educational institutions. Stay tuned for further updates as investigations progress.
Pathway to Justice for Boarding School Abuse Survivors
For victims of physical and sexual abuse at boarding schools and their families, the road to healing and accountability can seem daunting. However, it’s crucial to remember that the law provides a means to seek justice and receive compensation for the unimaginable trauma endured. Local Missouri boarding school abuse lawyer Ryan Frazier, Esq. sat down with attorney Laurence Banville to discuss the legal rights available for victims.
Laurence Banville, Esq: Thank you for joining us, Ryan. As a physical and sexual abuse attorney with experience in cases involving boarding schools, what encouragement can you give boarding school survivors?
Ryan Frazier, Esq: My heart goes out to the former students of Lighthouse Christian Academy. The closure of this facility and the criminal charges filed against the owners and a teacher are deeply troubling, but they also represent an opportunity for justice.
I want to assure all survivors of boarding school abuse that they have legal options available to them. They have the right to seek compensation through civil lawsuits against the school, its leadership, and any individuals involved in the alleged abuse. While criminal charges are a start, the civil legal process can provide an additional avenue for these victims to hold the responsible parties accountable and find the closure they rightfully deserve.
Seek Justice, Receive Compensation: A Path Forward for Boarding School Abuse Survivors
If you or a loved one were a victim of abuse at boarding school, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team of experienced boarding school abuse lawyers is here to listen, provide guidance, and help you explore your legal options.
We understand the trauma you’ve endured, and we’re committed to fighting for your rights and securing the justice you deserve. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation. Together, we can work to hold these institutions accountable and ensure no one else suffers the same fate. Your voice matters, and we’re here to amplify it.
Sources:
Mr. Banville is a personal injury attorney who has experience in handling auto accidents, work injuries, medical malpractice, dog bites, slip and falls, and representing survivors and victims of sexual abuse. Mr. Banville is affiliated with law firms in Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, D.C., and Maryland. Abuse Guardian
