The FBI has launched an investigation into alleged abuse within People of Praise, a faith group associated with Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett, raising questions about the group’s practices and Barrett’s connections.
At a Glance
- FBI investigating allegations of physical and sexual abuse within People of Praise
- At least five individuals interviewed, with four providing detailed abuse accounts
- People of Praise Survivors urge FBI to expose pattern of child sexual abuse and cover-ups
- Justice Barrett’s membership in People of Praise scrutinized during Supreme Court nomination
- Group faces criticism for controversial practices and exclusionary policies
FBI Launches Investigation into People of Praise
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has initiated an inquiry into allegations of abuse within People of Praise, a faith group linked to Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett. The investigation includes interviews with individuals claiming to have suffered physical and sexual abuse at the hands of group members. This development comes after advocacy efforts by People of Praise Survivors, who called for an investigation into the sect’s handling of sexual abuse allegations.
According to reports, at least five individuals have been interviewed by the FBI, with four providing detailed accounts of abuse. The People of Praise Survivors group has released a statement urging the FBI to expose what they claim is a pattern of child sexual abuse and cover-ups within the organization. As of now, neither the FBI nor People of Praise have provided official comments on the interviews or allegations.
Scrutiny of People of Praise and Justice Barrett’s Connections
People of Praise has faced previous criticism for controversial practices, including the expulsion of members for same-sex relations and exclusionary admission policies in affiliated schools. Justice Barrett’s membership in the group came under intense scrutiny during her Supreme Court nomination process. In response, the group removed references and photos of her from its website.
“We must ensure that no child is victimized and silenced by a People of Praise member ever again.”
Reports suggest that Barrett and her husband allegedly lived with a key People of Praise founder before their marriage, further highlighting her ties to the group. These connections have raised questions about potential conflicts of interest and the impact on her role as a Supreme Court Justice.
Survivors’ Efforts to Prompt Investigation
The current FBI investigation was set in motion after People of Praise Survivors contacted the bureau in 2022 following media reports on sexual assault allegations within the group. When the FBI initially did not respond, the survivors sought assistance from Senator Ron Wyden to push for an inquiry.
One woman who grew up in a People of Praise household has publicly shared her experience of sexual and physical abuse. According to her account, the abuse was not prosecuted due to advice from sect leaders, highlighting concerns about the group’s handling of such allegations.
Implications and Ongoing Concerns
As the FBI investigation unfolds, it raises significant questions about the practices within People of Praise and the potential impact on Justice Barrett’s public image and role on the Supreme Court. The allegations of abuse and cover-ups within the group have sparked a broader discussion about the intersection of religious organizations, abuse allegations, and the justice system.
While the investigation is ongoing, it remains to be seen how these revelations will affect public perception of People of Praise and Justice Barrett. The case underscores the importance of thorough vetting processes for public officials and the need for transparency in addressing abuse allegations within religious organizations.
