Justice Delayed: Riverside Church Abuse Lawsuits Drag On as Victims Die
Six months after the first trial began, 26 lawsuits alleging childhood sexual abuse in Riverside Church's youth sports program remain unresolved. Three of the plaintiffs have died while awaiting justice, highlighting the prolonged legal process. The cases continue to move slowly through the courts, with no clear end in sight.
Of the 26 lawsuits filed against Riverside Church, only two have reached settlement—Daryl Powell's in January and one other. Three plaintiffs have died during the process, including D.N., whose February death was noted in a July court filing. The alleged abuse spans nearly four decades under coach Ernest Lorch, who died in 2012.
The church's youth program sent more than 60 players to the NBA. Attorneys Jordan Merson and Mallory Allen report no settlement outreach from the church, with Allen's client J.M. scheduled for trial on September 14. Both lawyers are actively preparing their cases for court.
The prolonged litigation could erode public trust in institutional accountability, particularly for religious and youth organizations. Survivors awaiting trial may face mounting emotional and physical tolls, as evidenced by the deaths of three plaintiffs. This delay may also discourage other abuse victims from coming forward, fearing they won't live to see resolution. Conversely, the ongoing cases could pressure courts and churches to expedite similar claims, potentially reshaping how historical abuse cases are handled.