Mormon Church Sexual Abuse

History of Sexual Abuse in the Mormon Church

For decades, reports of sexual abuse in the Mormon Church, also known as the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), have surfaced.

Survivors have described Mormon sex abuse by trusted church figures and systemic failures that allowed it to continue. These stories reveal a troubling pattern where survivors’ safety was put aside in favor of protecting the church and its leaders.

Common issues raised in Mormon Church sexual abuse reports include:

• Abuse by clergy, missionaries, youth leaders, and other trusted figures who used their positions of authority to exploit children.
• Cover-ups and failures to report allegations to law enforcement, with many cases kept within church systems rather than investigated by outside authorities.
• Mechanisms like the church’s abuse “help line,” which routed calls through church attorneys and has been criticized for prioritizing the institution’s reputation over survivor safety.
• Pressure on families to stay silent, forgive, or avoid bringing shame to the church community.
• Survivors left feeling silenced, isolated, and betrayed by a faith community they once trusted.

“Despite good medical care and counseling, I fight every day to feel good about myself and find a reason to keep going. There were no legal consequences for the person who abused me despite reporting to church leaders.”
– Mormon Church Sexual Abuse Survivor

Harm from Mormon Church sexual assault extends far beyond the physical. Survivors often carry deep emotional wounds that can last a lifetime. Some have chosen to take legal action to seek accountability and prevent future harm.

If you or a loved one experienced Mormon Church sex abuse, what happened was not your fault — and you are not alone. Healing is possible, and support is available.

Call (877) 684-0487 right now to get help accessing resources and learn more about your options for healing and justice.

Why Mormon Church Sex Abuse Goes Unreported

Many survivors struggle to share their stories, often because of cultural pressures within the Mormon Church. These barriers can make it feel overwhelming to speak up, even when someone desperately wants to seek help.

Survivors may not report Mormon Church sexual abuse due to:

• Fear of retaliation or excommunication: Survivors may worry about losing their church membership, faith community, or even close family relationships if they come forward.
• Internal reporting systems: Allegations are often directed to church leaders or hotlines managed by the institution instead of law enforcement. This can keep abuse hidden and discourage families from going outside the church for help.
• Obedience and authority: Members are taught from a young age to respect and follow church leaders without question. This can make it hard to challenge or report Mormon sexual assault when the abuser is in a position of authority.
• Shame and stigma: Survivors may feel blamed, judged, or afraid of being labeled as sinful. These feelings can create heavy silence around Mormon Church sex abuse and prevent victims from seeking support.

The church “handled the repeated allegations internally as a ‘matter of sin’ and not one leader reported any matter to police.”
– Mormon Church Sexual Abuse Survivor

These barriers mean many cases of Mormon Church sex abuse have gone unreported for years or even decades. The silence can add to survivors’ pain, leaving them feeling invisible or unsupported.

Breaking the silence of clergy sexual abuse takes enormous courage. If you’re considering taking legal action, know that we’re here to listen and walk with you at your own pace.

Steps to File a Mormon Church Sexual Abuse Lawsuit

Some survivors of Mormon Church sexual abuse choose to take legal action to hold perpetrators and the church accountable. This can be a powerful way to seek justice, create change, and access financial support for healing.

An experienced sexual abuse attorney can handle all aspects of a lawsuit for sexual abuse in the Mormon Church, making the process as easy and stress-free as possible.

In general, the steps involved in LDS Church sexual abuse cases include:

1. Connect with an attorney who has experience in Mormon Church sexual assault cases
2. Collect evidence like medical records and witness statements to build a strong case
3. File your LDS Church sexual abuse lawsuit against the abuser and the church
4. Access compensation from a Mormon Church sexual abuse settlement

Most Mormon Church sexual assault lawsuits end in settlements, providing compensation for therapy, lost wages, medical expenses, and the emotional toll of abuse. However, if a settlement isn’t reached, your attorney can fight for you in court.

For many, filing a lawsuit for sexual abuse in the LDS Church is not just about money — it’s about having their voices heard, preventing future harm, and reclaiming a sense of power that was taken away.

Statutes of limitations, or filing deadlines, vary by state. Many states have recently extended or removed time limits for childhood sexual abuse survivors. However, it’s important to reach out to a lawyer as soon as possible to protect your legal rights.

Get a Free Case Review

• Learn Your Legal Options
• Pursue Compensation
• Find a Lawyer Near You

Get a Free Case Review

Compensation in Mormon Church Sexual Abuse Cases

Over the years, courts across the country have held the Mormon Church accountable for sexual abuse. These results show both the seriousness of the harm and the willingness of courts to believe survivors.

LDS sexual abuse verdicts and settlements include:

• $2.28 billion to a woman abused by her stepfather at home and during church functions between the ages of 5 and 14. The lawsuit alleged church officials were told about the abuse but failed to report it and pressured her to remain silent.
• $4.2 million to 2 sisters in Washington state who were abused by their stepfather, a lay priest in the LDS Church. A jury found the church liable for negligence and intentional misconduct after leaders failed to act when the abuse was reported.
• $4 million against the LDS Church for failing to protect an 8-year-old boy from child abuse by Charles “Chuck” Blome, a church member and retired Army officer. Despite prior warnings, church leaders failed to act, allowing Blome to continue abusing children.
• $9.5 million Mormon Church sexual abuse settlement in Washington involving 3 victims of David O’Connor, an LDS church member and former high school wrestling coach. The lawsuit alleged the church and school district failed to protect children despite prior warnings and admissions.

Every case is unique, and the amount of compensation depends on the details of the abuse and its impact on your life. For survivors, these outcomes are also powerful reminders that the silence and secrecy of the past can be broken.

Call (877) 684-0487 to find out if you qualify for a Mormon sexual abuse settlement and connect with resources that can help you move forward.

Support and Legal Help for Mormon Church Sexual Assault & Abuse

Choosing whether or not to pursue legal action is a deeply personal decision — and no matter what you decide, support is available. Healing looks different for everyone, but many survivors find strength in a mix of therapy, community, and advocacy.

Additionally, legal guidance may help you better understand your rights and options, even if you are unsure about taking action.

At the Victim Advocacy Center, our role is to walk alongside you. We can connect you with trusted resources and help you explore a path toward healing and justice that feels right for you — on your timeline and in your own way.

Call (877) 684-0487 right now or get a free case review to take the first step.