Christian Sports Camp Facing Sex Abuse Lawsuits

Connect Mid-Missouri
December 2, 2013

http://www.connectmidmissouri.com/news/story.aspx?id=978349#.Up4EecRdWSr

A Christian sports camp network based in Branson is facing two lawsuits alleging sexual abuse by its ex-director, who is serving a long prison sentence for sexual abuse of boys at a camp.

One lawsuit, filed in Taney County against Kanakuk Kamps, alleges former director Peter Newman molested a boy from 2000 to 2005. The second case, filed in federal court in Dallas, alleges Newman sexually abused a camper from 2001 through 2007.

The lawsuits allege camp officials knew about Newman's behavior but didn't keep him away from children.

The Kansas City Star reports two similar lawsuits, both filed in 2011, were settled this year.

Newman is serving two life sentences plus 30 years for his abuse convictions.

A Kanakuk spokesman said camp officials couldn't discuss pending litigation.