Warning: This story contains graphic descriptions of abuse.
Ethnos360, a Christian organization formerly known as New Tribes Mission, is embroiled in a lawsuit that highlights its alleged failure to protect children from sexual abuse. The lawsuit, filed in Florida’s 18th Judicial Circuit Court, accuses the organization of negligence after a girl was reportedly sexually abused by another child at its missionary training center in Missouri.
Founded in Sanford, Florida, Ethnos360 has a long history of sending missionaries and their families to remote areas around the world. However, the organization has faced numerous allegations of child sex abuse over the years. In a 2019 report by NBC News, several women came forward, detailing their experiences of being sexually abused by “dorm dads,” who were missionaries responsible for caring for children at New Tribes Mission’s overseas boarding schools.
In response to these allegations, Ethnos360 issued a public apology and claimed to have implemented significant child safety training following recommendations made by an independent party in 2010. However, the recent lawsuit suggests that these measures were insufficient, as the abuse of the girl, identified only by her initials A.W., reportedly began in 2016 when she was just 9 years old.
Details of the Allegations
The lawsuit alleges that A.W. endured years of sexual abuse, including unwanted touching and penetration with objects. It claims that Ethnos360 failed to provide adequate education or training regarding peer-on-peer child sexual abuse to anyone living on the Ethnos campus. The organization is accused of not properly investigating the allegations, which has raised serious concerns about the safety of children within its community.
A.W., now 17, has suffered significant emotional and psychological distress as a result of the abuse. In an interview, she expressed the ongoing struggles she faces, including PTSD and anxiety. “I’ve overcome a lot, but I still have a lot of struggles, just with PTSD and anxiety,” she stated. “I have to take things day by day.”
Legal Proceedings and Responses
The lawsuit names Ethnos360 as the defendant, while Brian Coombs, the organization’s director of child safety at the time of the alleged abuse, is mentioned throughout the complaint. Although he is not named as a co-defendant, the lawsuit accuses him of failing to ensure that the alleged perpetrator was not left alone with other children after being informed of the abuse.
Coombs has not publicly commented on the allegations, nor has an attorney for Ethnos360. The organization has addressed past allegations of sexual abuse on its website, stating its commitment to child safety and accountability. However, the lawsuit claims that A.W. did not disclose the abuse until two years later, fearing for her family’s safety due to threats from the alleged perpetrator.
Community Impact and Future Implications
The lawsuit seeks compensatory damages and a jury trial, asserting that Ethnos360 had a duty to provide training to its employees on identifying and reporting child abuse, including peer-on-peer abuse. A.W.’s parents expressed their disappointment in Ethnos360’s handling of the situation, feeling that the organization became indifferent once they realized Missouri authorities were not pursuing the case.
A.W.’s mother, Tracey Whidden, shared her disillusionment with Ethnos360, stating, “I feel that He looks down on leadership and weeps with the way that they’re handling this stuff.” A.W. herself emphasized the importance of the lawsuit, hoping it would help others who have experienced similar abuse. “This doesn’t define them,” she said. “They are not a victim. They are a survivor, and there’s hope.”
Support for Survivors
As this case unfolds, it raises critical questions about the responsibilities of organizations like Ethnos360 in safeguarding children and addressing allegations of abuse. The outcome of the lawsuit may not only impact A.W. and her family but could also lead to broader changes in policies and practices within religious organizations to better protect vulnerable individuals.
For those affected by sexual abuse, resources are available. The National Sexual Assault Telephone Hotline, operated by the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), offers confidential support and can connect individuals with local crisis centers. If you or someone you know needs help, you can reach out to the hotline at 1-800-656-4673 or visit RAINN’s website for more information.
