$5.4 Million Lawsuit Targets Campbell Family
Wes Campbell, owner of the Grammy-nominated Christian band Newsboys, is facing a $5.4 million lawsuit, along with four family members. Filed on June 3 by former pastor Randall Schrum, the suit accuses the Campbells of defamation, conspiracy, obstruction of justice, and emotional distress. Schrum, now leading Refuge Ridge Fellowship, was previously an elder at Hilltop Fellowship, a house church led by the Campbells in Primm Springs, Tennessee.
Church Fallout Sparks Legal Action
The conflict began after church leadership questioned the behavior of Evangeline Campbell, Wes’s sister. Schrum claims that when disciplinary measures were proposed, her father, Pastor Colin Campbell, refused to act. A report warning of potential fallout from the church was leaked, allegedly sparking a confrontation. On March 30, 16 Campbell family members, led by Rocky Campbell, reportedly disrupted a church service and issued threats against Schrum.
Police Raid and Harassment Allegations
Following the March altercation, someone allegedly filed a false child abuse report against Schrum. This led to a dramatic police raid on April 2. Officers inspected the family’s home in the middle of the night, terrifying Schrum’s pregnant wife and children. The lawsuit claims Evangeline Campbell was behind the false report and that the family’s tire was slashed that same night.
Wes Campbell’s Role in Escalation
Though not present at the March church incident, Wes Campbell is accused of defaming Schrum publicly and privately. He allegedly told others that Schrum was trying to steal the church and had a questionable history. Schrum also claims Wes and his parents wanted to prevent him from attending a family retreat, further spreading defamatory statements.
Career and Family Fallout
The lawsuit coincides with a broader crisis for Wes Campbell. On June 22, Capitol Christian Records dropped the Newsboys. This followed a June 19 report by The Roys Report that Wes’s brother, Steve Campbell, allegedly covered up sexual assault claims. Steve denies the allegations, but the band has since distanced itself from him. Meanwhile, Schrum is requesting nine jury trials, signaling a prolonged legal battle.
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