Pawleys Island church faces fourth lawsuit over alleged failure to screen sex offender at Christian academy

Pawleys Island Community Church faces ongoing scrutiny as a fourth lawsuit has been filed against its leadership, alleging failures in safeguarding children. The complaint, filed on July 21, names former pastor Don Williams and others in leadership, accusing them of not properly screening a convicted sex offender who had regular access to children at the church’s affiliated Christian academy.

Warren Perry, a 70-year-old man convicted in 2023 of sexual exploitation of a minor, was a long-time member of the church and worked at the academy. Court records indicate he received drawings and gifts from children, raising concerns about his presence among minors. The lawsuit claims that Williams and his wife, Ginny, knowingly allowed Perry to remain on the campus, despite his conviction and the legal requirements for background checks.

State law prohibits licensed childcare facilities from employing individuals who are required to register as sex offenders. The complaint argues that the defendants failed to comply with these regulations, exposing children to unnecessary risk. Attorney Robert Childs, who represents the plaintiffs, stated that the church leadership was aware of the dangers posed by Perry and neglected their duty to protect the children in their care.

Following the discovery of Perry’s role at the academy, several key figures in the church resigned on July 17. Three days later, Williams, Ginny Williams, and former school director Niki Howard were arrested, accused of endangering children by allowing Perry to work on campus. The South Carolina Department of Social Services is also investigating Perry’s activities at the school, though officials have not provided further details due to the ongoing nature of the probe.

The case has sparked renewed calls for accountability within religious institutions that serve minors. As the legal and administrative investigations continue, the focus remains on ensuring that children are protected and that those in positions of responsibility are held to the highest standards of care and oversight.

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