A recent federal lawsuit has brought to light disturbing allegations of sexual abuse at Circle of Hope Girls Ranch, a now-closed Christian boarding school in Missouri. The case, filed on behalf of an 18-year-old former student, accuses the school's owners of severe mistreatment, including abuse, harassment, forced servitude, assault, and fraud.
This lawsuit is part of a broader pattern of abuse allegations against religious boarding schools in Missouri, raising critical questions about the state's regulatory framework for such institutions. Since 2020, Circle of Hope has faced at least 26 lawsuits in state and federal courts from former students alleging abuse.
The 25-page civil lawsuit details shocking claims, including an incident where Boyd Householder, one of the school's owners, allegedly wrapped the plaintiff's head with tape as punishment for singing a Christian song. The plaintiff, identified as Jane Doe or Plaintiff D.A., was only 13 when she arrived at the facility.
Read: https://abuseguardian.com/survivors-of-circle-of-hope-abuse-lawsuit-calls-for-trial-in-missouri/
The case has also brought attention to the criminal charges against the school's owners. Stephanie and Boyd Householder were charged with more than 100 abuse-related felonies in 2021. While Boyd Householder has since passed away, Stephanie Householder is set to face a criminal trial later this year, accused of 21 felonies, including child abuse, neglect, and endangerment.
Advocates and survivors are calling for increased state oversight of religious schools in Missouri. Currently, state law has relatively few regulations governing overnight-stay schools with religious ties. David Clohessy, a member of the Survivors Network of Those Abused by Priests (SNAP), emphasized the importance of survivors coming forward and reporting abuse to authorities.
The long-term impact of such abuse cannot be understated. Robin Craycroft, a survivor who now works as a therapist in Springfield, highlighted that trauma can fundamentally alter a person's perception of the world, making it seem like a dangerous place.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the need for stronger protections for vulnerable children in religious institutions and the importance of giving voice to survivors of abuse.
Circle of Hope Ranch Abuse Case: Survivors Push for Trial, Opposing Plea Bargains
