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A former youth pastor in Waxahachie, TX has been sentenced to 50 years in prison after pleading guilty to multiple counts of child sexual abuse, according to Fox 4. Marvins Scales, 53, faced charges related to the sexual abuse of four minors, including impregnating a 14-year-old girl. The name of the church has yet to be disclosed to the public.
The investigation into Scales began in August 2023 when a 14-year-old girl gave birth at Baylor Scott & White – Waxahachie. Hospital staff alerted law enforcement after noticing Scales’s excessive involvement during the delivery. Following this, police obtained a warrant for the newborn’s DNA, confirming Scales as the biological father.
Scales, who served as a youth pastor at a local church, had a history of abusing minors. Church members reported that several victims came forward once the first allegations against him were made. According to the district attorney’s office, Scales frequently hosted children for overnight trips, during which he would sexually abuse them.
Investigators uncovered that Scales had installed an extensive security system at his home, which recorded several of the assaults. This footage played a critical role in identifying additional victims. Ellis County District Attorney Ann Montgomery emphasized the challenges victims face when the abuser holds a position of authority, particularly within a religious setting. She praised the courage of those who came forward, stating that their actions have helped protect other children from further harm.
Scales had previously registered as a sex offender in 2006 and had a prior conviction for child sex abuse in 1998, for which he served a 10-year prison sentence. It remains unclear whether the church where he worked was aware of his past offenses when they hired him.
With Scales now sentenced and ineligible for parole, authorities hope this outcome will aid in the healing process for the victims and the community.
In the aftermath of the shocking case involving former Waxahachie youth pastor Marvins Scales, discussions around the legal rights of child abuse victims have gained urgency. Our team sat down with Anjali Nigam, an experienced clergy abuse lawyer, to explore the protections available for young victims and the steps necessary to hold negligent parties accountable. This conversation aims to illuminate the challenges faced by survivors and the importance of addressing abuse within religious institutions.
Editor Darla Medina: Thank you for joining us. In light of the recent case involving a youth pastor with a history of sexual abuse charges, what legal rights do children have when they are victims of sexual abuse by a youth pastor?
Attorney Anjali Nigam: Children and their families have a number of legal rights when it comes to clergy abuse. They can report the abuse to law enforcement, and depending on their age, they may also have the right to seek civil remedies against the abuser and any institutions that failed to protect them. This includes filing lawsuits for damages.
DM: What steps can victims take to hold negligent parties accountable, such as the church that employed Scales?
AN: Victims can pursue legal action against the church if it can be shown that the organization knew about the abuser's past or failed to take appropriate measures to protect their congregants. This often involves gathering evidence, such as documentation of prior complaints or a history of abuse within the institution.
DM: How important is it for victims to come forward, especially when the abuser holds a position of authority?
AN:It's incredibly important. Speaking out not only helps victims seek justice but also protects others from potential harm. When one person comes forward, it often encourages others to share their experiences, which can lead to a broader understanding of the issue and help reform practices within organizations.
DM: Thank you, Anjali, for sharing your knowledge on this sensitive topic. It’s vital for communities to support victims and ensure that accountability measures are in place.
If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual abuse at a church, it’s important to seek help and understand your rights. Victims and their families are encouraged to reach out for support. Our team is here to provide guidance and assistance through this difficult time. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you navigate the path to healing and accountability.
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