The Circle of Hope Girls Ranch, a now-shuttered religious boarding school in Missouri, faces fresh legal challenges as a new Circle of Hope boarding school sexual abuse lawsuit emerges. This case adds to the growing list of allegations against the facility, which has been under scrutiny for its treatment of troubled teens.
The lawsuit, filed by a former student, details disturbing accounts of physical, emotional, and sexual abuse that allegedly occurred during her time at the ranch. The plaintiff, who wishes to remain anonymous, claims that the school's founders, Boyd and Stephanie Householder, along with other staff members, perpetrated and enabled a culture of abuse under the guise of religious discipline.
Abuse Survivors Demand Missouri State Oversight as New Lawsuit Emerges Against Religious School
According to court documents, the abuse ranged from severe physical punishments to sexual assaults. The plaintiff alleges that she was subjected to isolation, food deprivation, and forced labor, in addition to sexual misconduct by those entrusted with her care.
This new legal action comes in the wake of previous criminal charges against the Householders, who were arrested in 2021 on multiple counts of abuse. The Missouri Attorney General's office had previously investigated the ranch, leading to its closure and the removal of students from the premises.
The lawsuit seeks not only compensation for the alleged victim but also aims to shed light on the systemic issues within religious reform schools. Advocates hope that this case will prompt further investigations into similar institutions and lead to stronger oversight and regulation of youth residential facilities.
As the legal proceedings unfold, former students of Circle of Hope Girls Ranch continue to come forward with their stories, contributing to a broader conversation about accountability and reform in youth treatment programs across the country.
Read more: https://abuseguardian.legalexaminer.com/legal/new-abuse-allegations-against-missouri-religious-school-circle-of-hope-girls-ranch/
