Woman Sues Pennsylvania Church for Failing to Protect Her from Pastor’s Abuse

A woman is seeking $75,000 in damages from a Pennsylvania church she claims failed to protect her from sexual abuse by its former pastor. The complaint, filed last week in U.S. Middle District Court, alleges that Cedar Crest Independent Baptist Church of Mount Union knew Rev. Jeffrey Winstead was molesting minors but took “no meaningful action,” according to Penn Live.

The woman, who now resides out of state, alleges that the abuse occurred while she was a teenager. Rev. Winstead, who has been incarcerated since 2014, pleaded guilty to involuntary deviate sexual intercourse with a person under 16 and unlawful contact with a minor. He is currently serving an 8 to 16-year prison sentence.

The lawsuit, filed by the Andreozzi and Foote law firm in Harrisburg, which focuses on sexual abuse cases, claims that some of the misconduct took place at the church, an affiliated school, a parsonage, and a camp. The complaint asserts that church officials were negligent in child abuse prevention, employment screening, and supervision of Winstead despite “red flags” indicating abuse was occurring.

The case highlights concerns about accountability and oversight within religious institutions. It underscores the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals and ensuring that organizations take proactive measures to prevent harm. The legal proceedings may set a precedent for how churches are held responsible for the actions of their staff and leaders.

Source: Read the original report