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Abuse Allegations Surge: Lawsuits Rock Schools and Churches

1/14/2026

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Center

Students Sue District

Six former students filed a lawsuit against the Davis School District in Farmington, Utah, alleging the district mishandled reports of a coach's grooming and abuse reported in 2023, and that the failure to investigate led to bullying.
Four women confronted Pastor Joe Campbell in Oklahoma, accusing him of 1980s sexual abuse.
Singer Stacie Orrico has sued her former manager for years of sexual abuse, seeking industry accountability.

Right

Busfield Faces Charges

Timothy Busfield, actor, surrendered to New Mexico authorities on January 13, 2026, facing child sex abuse charges involving 11-year-old twins.
He denies the allegations, calling them lies and asserting his innocence.
The alleged misconduct occurred while he directed the Fox series The Cleaning Lady from 2022 to 2024.
Reports indicate the abuse began when one boy was seven, with multiple incidents documented.

History

Historical Context

The Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA), enacted in 1974 and rewritten in 1988, established federal funding to combat child abuse, providing over $100 million annually to states for child welfare improvements. Recent lawsuits against the Davis School District and Pastor Joe Campbell highlight ongoing institutional failures, underscoring the need for stronger protections and accountability for victims of abuse in various sectors.

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Students Sue District

Six former students filed a lawsuit against the Davis School District in Farmington, Utah, alleging the district mishandled reports of a coach's grooming and abuse reported in 2023, and that the failure to investigate led to bullying.
Four women confronted Pastor Joe Campbell in Oklahoma, accusing him of 1980s sexual abuse.
Singer Stacie Orrico has sued her former manager for years of sexual abuse, seeking industry accountability.

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