Marshall’s Ad Accuses Hamilton of Protecting Child Sexual Predator, Sparks Controversy Over Church Response to Allegations

Marshall’s recent television ad has sparked significant controversy by accusing Adam Hamilton of shielding a child sexual predator linked to his Church of the Resurrection. The ad centers on Scott Preston Moore, a volunteer who was allegedly involved in inappropriate conduct with two teenage boys during a youth retreat over two decades ago. The allegations have drawn scrutiny over the church’s response and its subsequent policies.

Hamilton has responded by clarifying the church’s actions, emphasizing that it did not initially report the allegations to law enforcement. Church leaders conducted an internal investigation in 2005 but did not involve authorities or social services. The investigation was inconclusive due to the boys’ inability to positively identify Moore. Parents were not informed of the outcome, according to court records. Hamilton acknowledged meeting with one family but could not recall the specifics of their conversation.

In a recent interview, Hamilton admitted that the church should have contacted the police first and stated that the organization changed its policy the following year to report such allegations to authorities before conducting internal investigations. “We absolutely would have taken it to the police first (now),” he said, reflecting a shift in the church’s approach to handling similar concerns.

The ad also raised claims that Hamilton welcomed Moore back the following fall, potentially allowing him to harm more children. Moore returned as a cabin leader in 2006 and was again accused of entering campers’ rooms at night. However, court records do not confirm that he sexually assaulted anyone during that retreat. Church leaders eventually reported both incidents to the Linn County Sheriff’s Office, though the county prosecutor declined to pursue charges. The available records do not establish that Hamilton personally decided to allow Moore’s return.

The controversy surrounding the ad has extended beyond the political arena. The Tall Oaks Camp and Conference Center in Linwood demanded that Marshall remove photographs of its property and campers, which were unrelated to the allegations. Marshall’s campaign complied, and he issued an apology for the incident.

The case raises important questions about accountability, transparency, and the protection of minors. Proverbs 31:8-9 reminds us to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, emphasizing the moral imperative to advocate for the vulnerable. As communities grapple with these issues, the call to uphold justice and care for the innocent remains central to the Christian witness.

Source: Read the original report