Former Youth Pastor Sues Church for Nearly $450K in Legal Expenses After Acquittal

A former youth pastor who was acquitted of sexual abuse charges against two minors is now suing his former church for nearly $450,000 in legal expenses. Brett Bymaster was found not guilty in November 2025 after a trial stemming from allegations that he had abused two minor sisters over a period of years. The district attorney expressed dissatisfaction with the verdict, but Bymaster stated he was relieved the jury saw through what he called “lies” and prevented a “miscarriage of justice.”

Bymaster, who worked at The River Church until 2019, claims the church launched a “longstanding campaign” to damage his career and reputation before the trial. His lawsuit, filed against the church, seeks reimbursement for legal costs incurred during the defense. Bymaster argues that under California labor law, the church is obligated to cover expenses resulting from the discharge of his duties.

In a statement, Bymaster said he and the church had attempted to reach a settlement before filing the lawsuit, but disagreements over legal reimbursement prevented an agreement. He emphasized that his family and in-laws used retirement savings to cover the financial burden of the legal battle. Bymaster is seeking to be “made whole” for the expenses, without seeking compensation for emotional or reputational harm.

Despite the legal action, Bymaster expressed openness to resolving the matter through Christian mediation, as the church had previously indicated its willingness to pursue reconciliation. He also affirmed his belief in forgiveness and reconciliation, though he maintains the church has a legal obligation to cover the costs of the defense.

The case highlights the complex intersection of legal responsibility, accountability, and the impact of false accusations on individuals and institutions. As the church continues to navigate the aftermath, the situation underscores the importance of transparency, fairness, and the pursuit of justice in all matters, reflecting the biblical call to “defend the cause of the weak and the fatherless” (Proverbs 31:8-9).

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