In a startling development, Circle of Hope Girls Ranch, a now-closed Christian boarding school in Missouri, faces fresh accusations of severe mistreatment and abuse. A recently filed federal lawsuit has brought to light disturbing allegations, reigniting concerns about the oversight of religious schools in the state.The lawsuit, filed on behalf of an 18-year-old former student, paints a harrowing picture of life at the ranch. The plaintiff, who arrived at the facility at just 13 years old, alleges a range of abuses including harassment, forced servitude, and assault. One particularly shocking incident described in the 25-page civil suit involves Boyd Householder, one of the school's owners, allegedly wrapping the plaintiff's head with tape as punishment for singing a Christian song.
This case is not an isolated incident. Since 2020, Circle of Hope has been hit with at least 26 lawsuits in state and federal courts from former students alleging abuse. Another religious institution, Agape Boarding School for Boys, faces similar legal challenges with at least 20 federal suits and 40 state court lawsuits.The owners of Circle of Hope, Stephanie and Boyd Householder, were charged with over 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.
This lawsuit and subsequent demonstration by abuse survivors at the federal courthouse in Springfield underscore the urgent need for increased state oversight of religious schools in Missouri. Currently, state law has 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.
Robin Craycroft, a survivor who now works as a therapist in Springfield, highlighted the long-lasting effects of sexual trauma, explaining how it can fundamentally alter a person's perception of the world. The case against Circle of Hope Girls Ranch serves as a stark reminder of the potential for abuse in unregulated environments and the critical need for stronger oversight and protection for vulnerable youth in religious institutions.
