Lawsuit Filed Against Pawleys Island Church and Academy Over Alleged Child Sexual Abuse by Warren Perry, Church Leaders Accused of Allowing Access Despite Known History

A new lawsuit has been filed against Pawleys Island Community Church and Pawleys Island Christian Academy, alleging that a child was sexually abused by Warren Perry, a registered sex offender. The lawsuit, brought by the Law Offices of Kenneth Berger on behalf of the child and their family, claims that church and school leaders knowingly allowed Perry access to children, including inside classrooms, despite being aware of his criminal history.

This legal action is separate from a class-action lawsuit previously filed against the same entities. The complaint highlights that the family had reported the abuse to school authorities in 2022, but their concerns were allegedly dismissed. Attorney Kenneth Berger emphasized that institutions are not permitted to illegally shelter sex offenders and that the family’s trust in the school to protect their child was violated.

The lawsuit coincides with a court hearing where Perry was denied bond. Meanwhile, former church pastor Don Williams, former administrator Ginny Williams, and former academy director Jennifer “Niki” Howard were granted bond after being charged in relation to Perry’s involvement with the church and school.

This situation has left the community grappling with the implications of the investigation. As the legal proceedings continue, the case underscores the importance of accountability and the protection of the vulnerable, reflecting the biblical principle of caring for one’s neighbor (Micah 6:8).

Source: Read the original report