Church Leadership Fails to Protect Vulnerable Children
Accounts from survivors reveal a troubling pattern of misconduct and negligence. Children who sought to alert adults about the abuse they experienced faced dismissal, while pastors minimized the severity of their claims. Meanwhile, church leaders chose to shield abusers, thereby perpetuating a cycle of victimization.
Drawing Attention to Abuse
One of the most harrowing accounts comes from Davis, whose story exemplifies the failures of the church leadership. Following an investigation by NBC News, more women stepped forward to join the legal efforts against Waller, citing not only instances of abuse but also the subsequent cover-ups facilitated by church officials.
Claims of Negligence and Cover-ups
As stated by the women’s attorney, Joshua D. Gillispie, the Assemblies of God organization was aware of Waller’s predatory behavior as early as 2004: “Mr. Waller was found in possession of a camera and a list of inappropriate exercises. Instead of acting in the best interest of the children, the church prioritized its reputation and extended kindness to the abuser.”
Official Response from Assemblies of God
The General Council of the Assemblies of God contends that it was unaware of the allegations against Waller until 2015, claiming that once notified, he was immediately reported to the appropriate legal authorities and stripped of his ministerial status. They assert that this action aligns with a longstanding zero-tolerance policy for abuse.
Child Safety Policies Under Scrutiny
While the General Council has expressed its support for child safety initiatives and extended condolences to victims, critics allege that the measures taken have often been insufficient. The Church of Refuge, formerly known as Jonesboro First Assembly of God, did not respond to inquiries regarding its policies but previously announced that it had enhanced safety measures, including background checks and mandatory reporting procedures.
Defendant’s Denial of Charges
The church’s former senior pastor, Mike Glover, who is named in the lawsuit, has directed inquiries to attorney Glenn S. Ritter. Glover vehemently denies any allegations of negligence, with Ritter echoing this sentiment in subsequent communications.
Failings of Previous Investigations
Diving into the timeline of events, the complaint states that Glover hired Waller as a children’s minister in 1999. Alarm bells were raised within a year, prompting investigations by law enforcement and local school officials into Waller’s interactions with an 11-year-old girl he met through church activities. Despite alarming reports—including frequent visits to the girl’s school and inappropriate nighttime outings—the police did not file charges at the time, citing the girl’s denial of inappropriate behavior.
Continued Leadership Amidst Allegations
Even after being informed of the troubling behavior by police, Waller continued his role in directing children’s programs at the church. Glover, who served in the Assemblies of God for over 50 years and retired in 2024, claimed that while he remembered a police meeting, it focused merely on Waller making others uncomfortable rather than issuing a formal reprimand.
Revealing Further Abusive Practices
The situation escalated dramatically a few years later. In 2004, activities within Waller’s homeschool program raised significant concerns. According to Davis, then a sixth grader, Waller mandated that girls strip naked for physical exercises. This practice continued until the girls discovered a hidden camera through a hole in the bathroom door, confirming their worst fears about Waller’s intentions.
