A 21-year-old youth ministry mentor is facing charges of sexual assault after a 15-year-old girl in his congregation came forward to report the inappropriate relations that occurred at least 14 times.

The former youth ministry mentor is accused of taking the underage teen to a park 12 times over April and May and then took her twice in August. This occurred after church events. The teen alleges that it started with fondling and sexual acts being requested, and as time progressed, the severity of what was requested escalated.

The girl came forward to the youth director at the church, who then reported it to the proper authorities in the Office of Children, Youth and Families who then contacted police about the matter. The man accused has no prior charges, and while no volunteer application is necessary for youth ministry mentors, they do have to get clearance.

The man is facing one count each of corruption of minors, statutory sexual assault, endangering the welfare of children, aggravated indecent assault, and indecent assault. He has admitted to some of the crimes alleged by the victim and has given police a written statement.

This case is still moving through the criminal justice system. What happens next for the victim? It is the hope for all survivors of sexual abuse and assault that justice will be done by the courts, but that’s not always the case. All too often, there are new stories that create outrage over the light sentences or no sentence for sexual predators. There’s another option for justice, and that’s through the civil courts.

If you or a loved one has been the victim of institutional sexual assault or abuse, contact the law office of Mark A. Smith today to discuss your case’s details. It can be painful to open these emotional wounds, but seeing justice done and receiving compensation for what happened can help you towards a path of healing.