Authorities charge 5 more in Pennsylvania probe of child sexual abuse among Jehovah’s Witnesses

Authorities have charged five additional individuals in a Pennsylvania grand jury investigation into child sexual abuse within the Jehovah’s Witnesses community. The charges include rape and molestation of children as young as four, bringing the total number of suspects identified in the probe to 14. Pennsylvania Attorney General Michelle Henry emphasized that the misconduct, which spans years or even decades, continues to cause lasting trauma for victims. She stated the investigation would continue, though she did not comment on the church’s response to abuse allegations.

Critics argue that Jehovah’s Witnesses elders have historically treated child sexual abuse as a sin rather than a crime, documenting complaints internally without reporting them to law enforcement. The church has also been accused of requiring a second witness to substantiate abuse claims, a standard that can be difficult to meet when perpetrators isolate their victims. Mark Haugh, a former elder who left the church in 2016 and now advocates for survivors, testified before the grand jury. He expressed hope that elders who knew about abuse and failed to act would be held accountable, noting the issue is not confined to Pennsylvania.

The latest charges involve individuals who allegedly groomed or gained access to children through the church, sometimes by being invited into families’ homes. One victim reported being raped 50 or more times between the ages of 7 and 12 by a church member who was 18 when the abuse began. Other cases involved less severe charges of inappropriate touching. The five individuals charged include David Balosa, Errol William Hall, Shaun Sheffer, Terry Booth, and Luis Ayala-Velasquez, with four taken into custody and Balosa still at large.

A church spokesman stated that while specific grand jury actions cannot be commented on, the organization condemns any form of sexual abuse and has long worked to educate parents about child protection. The church also offers pastoral care to those affected and aims to remove unrepentant perpetrators from congregations. The ongoing investigation highlights the need for accountability and transparency in addressing abuse within religious communities.

The case underscores the importance of protecting the vulnerable and ensuring that those in positions of authority are held responsible for their actions. Micah 6:8 reminds us that justice, mercy, and humble service are essential in how we treat others.

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