Two sisters from Virginia have filed separate $150 million lawsuits over childhood sexual abuse by a church youth worker. The cases target the Southern Baptist Bethany Place Church, the now-parent Coastal Church, and former youth group assistant Gerald R. Thomas. The sisters, now 25 and 29, allege Thomas abused them over three years starting in 2006 when they were just 6 and 10.
Gerald R. Thomas Previously Convicted for Abuse
Gerald R. Thomas, now 75, pleaded guilty in 2010 to sexually abusing both sisters. He also pleaded guilty to another assault in 2020 involving a separate minor. The lawsuits allege that Thomas groomed the sisters and abused them regularly during church youth group meetings, sometimes in the presence of others. He remains under indefinite supervised probation.
Churches Accused of Negligence and Inaction
The lawsuits claim church officials were aware of the abuse and failed to act. In 2009, one sister disclosed the abuse to her mother in front of a church staffer. Though church leaders reportedly promised Thomas would be removed, no police report was filed. The abuse continued until the younger sister told a school counselor, which finally triggered an official investigation.
Legal Claims Against Churches and Leadership
The suits allege assault and battery, gross negligence, breach of duty, and reckless retention. Coastal Church acquired Bethany Place in 2023 and renamed it the Bethany Campus. Attorneys argue this acquisition makes Coastal responsible for past liabilities. The sisters seek $50 million in compensatory and $100 million in punitive damages, plus interest.
Mixed Reactions as Legal Battle Unfolds
Supporters of the sisters stress the long-lasting trauma and systemic failures. “It was time to say something… and hold these institutions responsible,” attorney Kevin Biniazan said. Coastal Church denies liability, claiming the abuse predates their involvement. The church emphasized their current leadership and commitment to child safety.
Source:
Sisters sue Coastal Church, former youth group assistant for $300M for childhood sex abuse
Photo by Wesley Tingey on Unsplash
About Post Author
