DOJ Ends Investigation into Southern Baptist Convention With No Charges

The U.S. Department of Justice has concluded its investigation into the Southern Baptist Convention's handling of sexual abuse, finding no grounds for charges.

The U.S. Department of Justice informed the Southern Baptist Convention's Executive Committee that their investigation, which began 18 months ago, has concluded with no further action.
The investigation was initiated following a 2022 report that revealed mishandling of sex abuse claims and mistreatment of victims within the denomination.
Despite the closure of the federal investigation, the Southern Baptist Convention acknowledges the need for ongoing sexual abuse reform efforts.
The Executive Committee has faced financial strain due to the investigation, leading to staff layoffs and increased legal expenses.
Advocates for abuse survivors stress that the end of the investigation does not diminish the denomination's moral responsibility for past harms.