Little Rock, AR – A former children’s ministry employee at Immanuel Baptist Church in Arkansas has been formally charged with sexual assault and kidnapping of a minor. Patrick Stephen Miller faces two counts each of kidnapping and second-degree sexual assault, which could result in a life sentence if convicted.
Allegations of Ignored Child Sexual Abuse by Church Employee
The charges stem from accusations made by a former church member, now a teenager, who alleges Miller molested her multiple times between the ages of 8 and 10. The alleged abuse occurred during what Miller referred to as “closet time” at the church.
Former Church Staffer Charged With Serious Child Sex Crimes
Miller, currently residing in Oklahoma, has been released on a $50,000 bond. His attorney, Bill James, contests the charges, stating he believes prosecutors lack sufficient evidence to support their claims.
Church’s Response and Membership Decline Following Sexual Abuse Scandal
The case has brought national attention to Immanuel Baptist, once the largest Southern Baptist church in Arkansas. In the aftermath, the church has experienced a significant loss of members, and the senior pastor was compelled to resign.
Southern Baptist Leaders Express Dismay Over Abuse Handling and Proposed Bylaws
Amid the scandal, Immanuel Baptist Church is preparing to adopt bylaws for the first time in its 132-year history. The draft proposal includes a provision that would prohibit church members from discussing church affairs with reporters and non-members.
Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) officials have voiced their astonishment regarding the mismanagement of abuse allegations and the recently proposed bylaws. These new rules seem to contradict fundamental Baptist principles of church autonomy and individual spiritual responsibility.
Multiple Accusations Pile Against Patrick Stephen Miller
Three women have come forward with accusations of sexual abuse against Miller during their childhoods. The recent formal charges mark a serious escalation in the case, with prosecutors alleging Miller placed the victim in a church closet and inappropriately touched her.
Legal Pathways for Survivors: An Attorney’s Guide to Church Abuse Cases
When allegations of sexual abuse surface within religious institutions, survivors and their families often face a complex and emotionally charged journey through the legal system. To help navigate these challenging waters, we spoke with Joshua Gillespie, a seasoned Arkansas attorney who specializes in cases involving sexual abuse within church settings. In this candid interview, Gillespie offers valuable information on the legal options available to survivors, explains how churches can be held accountable for negligence, and discusses the unique challenges these cases present. His insights provide a roadmap for those seeking to understand their rights and the potential avenues for recourse in the aftermath of such traumatic experiences.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: Mr. Gillespie, what legal options are available for children who have suffered sexual abuse by pastors?
Joshua Gillespie, Esq.: Victims have the right to pursue both criminal and civil cases. In criminal proceedings, the state prosecutes the abuser, potentially resulting in imprisonment and sex offender registration. Civil lawsuits allow victims to seek financial compensation from the abuser and, in many cases, the church itself.
Banville: Under what circumstances can families hold churches accountable for abuse committed by clergy members?
Gillespie: Churches can be held liable if they were negligent in their duty to protect children. This includes situations where the church knew or should have known about the abuse and failed to take appropriate action. Examples of negligence may include inadequate background checks, failure to report suspicions, or transferring accused clergy without warning.
Banville: Are there any specific challenges in these cases?
Gillispie: Statutes of limitations can be a significant hurdle, as many survivors don’t come forward until years after the abuse. However, Arkansas has recently extended the time limit for child sexual abuse cases, allowing more survivors to seek justice. Additionally, gathering evidence from events that occurred years ago can be challenging, which is why thorough investigation and expert testimony are often crucial in these cases.
Empowering Survivors: Your Path to Justice Starts Here
The road to healing and justice for survivors of church-related sexual abuse can be daunting, but you don’t have to walk it alone. If you or a loved one has experienced abuse within a religious institution, remember that legal support is available. Our team of compassionate and experienced attorneys is ready to listen to your story, explain your rights, and help you explore your options for holding abusers and negligent organizations accountable. Don’t let uncertainty or fear hold you back from seeking the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation. Your voice matters, and we’re here to amplify it.
Source:
https://baptistnews.com/article/immanuel-little-rock-is-making-news-again/
https://www.nwaonline.com/news/2024/sep/26/immanuel-baptist-church-says-third-person-has/
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
